Phoenix Spree Deutschland (LSE: PSDL.LN), the UK listed real estate company specialising in Berlin residential property, today announces its full year results for the year ended 31 December 2018.

Robert Hingley, Chairman of Phoenix Spree, commented:

"I am delighted to report that, following an exceptionally strong year in 2017, we have continued this momentum, delivering further increases in rental growth and portfolio value. This performance reflects the active management of our portfolio as well as the continued positive dynamics that characterise the Berlin residential market, where we are now fully focused following the disposal of our Northern German portfolio. Although Berlin residential yield compression has moderated, following a long period of declining property yields, we see significant opportunity to grow the portfolio value through a combination of investment into our existing properties and the acquisition of assets that meet our strict acquisition criteria. We are confident that we will continue to deliver value to shareholders through further rental growth, condominium sales and densification within the existing portfolio."

· Net loan to value of 26.1% as at 31 December 2018 (31 December 2017: 32.0%).

· New debt of €28.8 million signed during 2018. Average debt maturity of 7.7 years, average interest rate reduced to 2.0%.

· Final dividend per share of €5.15 cents (GBP:4.62p), giving a total dividend per share of €7.50 cents (GBP:6.73p) for year to 31 December 2018 (2017: €7.3 cents (GBP: 6.4p)).

Operational highlights: Strong portfolio performance

· Like-for-like Portfolio valuation increase of 14.0% in year to 31 December 2018.

o Total Portfolio valued at €645.7 million, an increase of 6.0% in absolute terms over the twelve-month period (31 December 2017: €609.3 million), reflecting the impact of non-Berlin disposals during year.

o Portfolio valuation represents an average value per square metre of €3,527 (31 December 2017: €2,853).

· EPRA Vacancy remains low at 2.8% (31 December 2017 2.9%).

· Condominium sale completion proceeds up 4.4%, to €9.9 million, achieving an average value per sqm of €4,566.

· Continued active management of the Berlin portfolio with record investment of €7.9 million in renovations and modernisations during 2018.

· New leases on average signed at a 39.7% premium to passing rents and condominium sales completed at a 27.8% premium to the average valuation of Berlin rental properties as at 31 December 2018.

Berlin transition complete: further progress on Berlin acquisitions

· Contracts to acquire 222 units notarised during 2018, representing an aggregate purchase price of €36.3 million and an average value per sqm of €2,390.

· As at 23 April 2019, contracts to acquire a further 14 units in Berlin have been notarised since the December 2018 year end for a purchase price of €2.4 million, representing a price per sqm of €2,956.

· Disposal of Central and Northern Germany portfolio completed in April 2018 for €73.0 million, a 26% premium to the Jones Lang LaSalle valuation pre-notarisation.

· Since 31 December 2018, all residual non-Berlin assets have been sold, creating a fully-focussed Berlin fund with potential for greater economies of scale.

· Substantive review of financing structure in progress. Expected to create further capacity for Portfolio development.

· Active consideration of densification projects, including attic conversions and new building construction on land surrounding buildings already owned by the Company.

For further information, please contact:

Phoenix Spree Deutschland Limited

Stuart Young

+44 (0)20 3937 8760

Numis Securities Limited (Corporate Broker)

David Benda

+44 (0)20 3100 2222

Tulchan Communications (Financial PR)

Elizabeth Snow

Amber Ahluwalia

+44 (0)20 7353 4200

CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT

I am delighted that the Company has continued its growth over the last twelve months, delivering further increases in rental revenues, property values and EPRA NAV after an exceptionally strong set of results in 2017. This performance is underpinned by the continued favourable Berlin residential rental market dynamics. After a long period of rapid property price inflation, yield compression has moderated, although the strong underlying demographic trends remain in place. The Berlin residential market is still characterised by a significant undersupply of available rental property, as well as positive demographic and employment trends.

Berlin transition complete: geographically focussed portfolio

When Phoenix Spree listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange in June 2015, 53.5% of the properties in the Portfolio were located outside of Berlin. Notwithstanding the solid financial performance of these assets, the Board considered that the Berlin residential market offered superior medium-term scope for further growth in rental and property values. The Company therefore successfully repositioned its geographic focus by divesting properties outside Berlin through a disciplined disposal process, all at a premium to trailing book value.

All remaining non-Berlin assets have been successfully divested following the sale of the Company's remaining Northern Germany assets in the second quarter of 2018 and one residual asset in Baden-Wurttemberg in early 2019. We have simultaneously enlarged our Berlin presence through our strategy of further acquisitions of attractive assets in central Berlin, enhancing the scope for further asset management efficiencies and economies of scale.

Acquiring for growth

Phoenix Spree has continued to add to the Portfolio in 2018 and has completed a further €41.6 million of acquisitions in central Berlin. The Company has a proven record of creating value for shareholders through property acquisitions, having acquired buildings with a combined initial value of €204.1 million from 2015 up to 31 December 2018, while maintaining its disciplined approach.

We are well placed to continue to grow the portfolio and we continue to research attractive acquisition opportunities.

Improving our tenanted accommodation

Some properties acquired can be in a poor state of repair, depending on the level of historical underinvestment by previous owners. The Company takes its responsibilities to its tenants extremely seriously and we have continued to invest in improvements to our properties.

Through a carefully targeted process of investment, we have raised the overall standard of accommodation for our tenants and the environment in areas where our buildings are located. During 2018, the Company invested the highest value yet on improvement programmes, and it is anticipated that this process will continue into 2019.

This improvement in the overall quality of our living accommodation has created significant future embedded value within the Berlin Portfolio, as evidenced by new leases signed at a premium to in-place rents and condominium sales completed at a premium to average rental property valuations.

Partnering with our Property Advisor

Since our introduction to the Stock Exchange in 2015, the Company has benefitted significantly from the expertise of its property advisor, PMM Partners (UK) Limited. It has actively managed and developed the Portfolio, whilst simultaneously sourcing value-enhancing acquisitions, and achieving disposals at a premium to book value. PMM Partners has also overseen the capital structure of the Company as well as its day-to-day interaction with investors and other key stakeholders in our business. These activities have been fundamental to the strong financial performance of Phoenix Spree and its ability to access capital markets.

I am therefore delighted that, following overwhelming shareholder approval at an Extraordinary General Meeting in December 2018, the Company entered into a new property advisory and investor relations agreement with PMM Residential Limited (PMM), a new company within the PMM Group, which will secure its continued expertise as property advisor until at least the end of 2022.

The new agreement will provide greater certainty and stability for shareholders and allow PMM to invest in infrastructure, IT systems and key personnel dedicated to servicing the Company's growing requirements. It will also reduce future management and performance fees paid by the Company and will, therefore, result in significant cost savings compared with the terms of the old property advisor agreement. The Board looks forward to building on our valued relationship with PMM over the coming years to continue our record of strong performance.

In February 2019, the Company announced it had been informed that PMM Partners (UK) Limited and its principals had sold a total of 2,239,361 shares in the Company. The sale of these shares was principally made to satisfy the tax liabilities arising from the December 2017 performance fee which was settled in Phoenix Spree Deutschland (PSD) shares issued to PMM Partners (UK) Limited in May 2018.

Share price and dividend

The 2018 financial year proved difficult for global equity markets in general, as concerns about global growth, the increasing trend towards trade protectionism and Brexit weighed heavily. Against this backdrop, 2018 was a year of consolidation for the Phoenix Spree share price. Notwithstanding this, the shares outperformed the FTSE All-Share index by 5% and the FTSE 350 Real Estate Investment Services sector by 12%.

The Board is pleased to recommend a final dividend of €5.15 cents per share (GBP 4.62 pence per share), taking the full year dividend to €7.50 cents per share (GBP 6.73 pence per share), representing a 3% increase on the 2017 full year Euro-denominated dividend.

Our Better Futures" Corporate Responsibility Plan

The Board recognises the importance of operating with integrity, transparency and clear accountability towards its shareholders, tenants and other key stakeholders. We understand that being a responsible Company, balancing the different interests of our stakeholders and addressing our environmental and social impacts is intrinsically linked to the success and sustainability of our business.

During the past year, the Board and PMM have reviewed how sustainability is managed within our business and considered carefully the views of our stakeholders and business priorities to create our 'Better Futures' Corporate Responsibility ('CR') Plan. This Plan provides a framework to monitor existing activities better, while adding new initiatives to improve our overall sustainability.

Our Corporate Responsibility Plan has four key pillars that have been integrated throughout our business operations: Protecting our Environment; Respecting People; Valuing our Customers and Investing in our Communities. We have established a CR Committee to oversee the implementation of the Better Futures Plan, reporting to the Board and advising on any CR related material issues. Our CR initiatives will be reported in more detail in our 2018 Annual Report and are available on the Company website.

The Board remains fully committed to high standards of corporate governance. It has considered the Main Principles and Provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code (July 2018) and is pleased to confirm that the Company has complied with the provisions of the Code throughout the year, except in certain instances which are set out in the Corporate Governance Statement within this announcement.

Outlook

In recent years, Berlin property values have benefited from significant yield compression. Although this has moderated, the outlook for the Berlin residential market remains positive. Residential prices remain on average below the cost of construction and demand for property continues to grow, due to the continuing process of urbanisation and population growth. Berlin average monthly rents per square metre remain among the lowest of all major European cities.

The Board believes there is scope for further market rental growth as well as the opportunity to improve rental incomes through our Property Advisor's active asset management strategies, particularly on recently acquired buildings. The reversionary potential that our substantial investment in the Portfolio to date has created should provide a cushion in the event of any market slowdown.

The Board remains confident that the Company will continue to generate growth in rental income and property values during 2019 supported by selected additions to the portfolio and further condominium projects. This, in turn, should deliver further capital growth and dividend income to investors in the current financial year.

REPORT OF THE PROPERTY ADVISOR

Portfolio Regional Overview as at 31 December 2018

Berlin

(incl. Greater Area)

Baden-Wurttemberg

Total

% of fund by value

99.4

0.6

100

Number of buildings

95

1

96

Number of residential units

2,374

18

2,392

Number of commercial units

142

11

153

Total units

2,516

29

2,545

Total sqm ('000)

179.4

3.7

183.1

Annualised Net Rent (€m)

17.6

0.4

18.0

Valuation (€m)

641.8

3.9

645.7

Value per sqm (€)

3,576

1,084

3,527

Fully occupied gross yield %

2.9

12.1

3.0

Vacancy %

4.7

7.7

4.8

EPRA Vacancy %

2.9

0.0

2.8

Like-for-like Portfolio value rises by 14%

On a like-for-like basis, excluding the net impact of acquisitions and disposals, the Portfolio valuation increased by 14.0% during the year ended 31 December 2018 as it continued to benefit from the strong market fundamentals in Berlin.

The total Portfolio was valued at €645.7 million by Jones Lang LaSalle GmbH, the Company's external valuers, an absolute increase of 6.0% over the twelve-month period (31 December 2017: €609.3 million), reflecting the impact of non-Berlin disposals during year. The Portfolio valuation represents an increased average value per square metre of €3,527 (31 December 2017: €2,853) and a gross fully occupied rental yield of 3.0% (31 December 2017: 3.4%).

The Berlin portfolio was valued at €641.8 million, an increase of 21.4% year-on-year (31 December 2017: €528.5 million). This represents an increased average value per square metre of €3,576 (31 December 2017: €3,220).

The principal drivers behind the like-for-like growth in the Portfolio value were:

· a further contraction in market yields, driven by the low interest rate environment;

· continued high levels of investor interest in the Berlin property market; and

· further development of the condominium market, with single apartment prices in Berlin experiencing another year of double-digit growth.

Rental income - growth trend continues

Contracted net rental income (excluding service charge revenue) declined by 3.2% to €17.5m (31 December 2017 €18.1m), reflecting the impact of disposal of remaining non-Berlin assets during the financial year. On a like-for-like basis, excluding the effect of acquisitions and disposals, rental income across the Portfolio grew by 9% compared with the prior year. Headline average in-place rent per sqm was €8.6 as at 31 December 2018, compared with €8.1 as at 31 December 2017.

Berlin saw a like-for-like increase in rent per sqm of 6.9%. Average rent per sqm was €8.5, a year-on-year increase of 5.1% compared with 2017, reflecting strong underlying rental growth in the existing portfolio, partially offset by the impact of recent acquisitions, which typically have lower rental values upon takeover.

As at 31 December 2018 the Company's net contracted annualised rental income was €18.0 million.

Recent letting prices achieve new highs for the Company

The Company enjoyed another strong letting performance in 2018. A total of 284 new leases were signed, representing 12.0% of the average units owned during the period. In the Berlin portfolio, average new letting prices were 5.3% to €11.9 per sqm (2017: €11.3 per sqm).

Portfolio reversionary rental potential remains high

Notwithstanding the growth in rental prices, the Portfolio continues to demonstrate significant reversionary potential, as shown by the premiums achieved on new letting prices when compared to in-place rents. New leases signed during the period in Berlin were agreed, on average, at a 40.4% premium to passing rents.

The Property Advisor believes this reversionary gap should underpin rental growth in the medium term, providing a buffer against any potential slow-down in the rental market.

EPRA vacancy remains low

Reported vacancy as at 31 December 2018 was 4.4%, down from 6.8% as at 31 December 2017. On an EPRA basis, which adjusts for units undergoing redevelopment or reserved for resale, vacancy was 2.8% as at 31 December 2018, compared with 2.9% as at 31 December 2017.

The Berlin EPRA vacancy rate also remained low at 2.9% (31 December 2017: 2.7%), with the modest increase reflecting a higher vacancy rate on buildings acquired during the year. The higher vacancy rate allows the Company to redevelop and re-let recently acquired apartments.

Portfolio investment reaches new high

The Company remains committed to improving living standards for its tenants and fulfilling its environmental obligations in areas where its properties are located. Depending on the level of historical underinvestment by previous owners, apartment improvements can involve redecoration, heating system and heating plant renewal, new insulation, double glazing, plumbing and flooring, as well as kitchen and bathroom renewal. Communal areas, both indoor and outdoor, are also reviewed for potential improvement where investment has previously been lacking. During 2018, the Company invested €7.9m, its highest sum to date, to further improve the overall quality of its accommodation and surroundings (year to 31 December 2017: €6.7 million).

In the Berlin rental portfolio, €4.5 million was invested in the refurbishment of 189 units representing an average outlay of €354.6 per sqm. The average premium achieved on re-letting these vacant Berlin units was 68.9%. A further €1.9 million was invested in the infrastructure of properties within the Portfolio for items such as heating system upgrades and improvements to indoor and outdoor communal areas. An additional €1.5 million was invested on the development of condominium projects. All these items are recorded in the accounts as capital expenditure.

A further €1.7 million was spent on repairs and maintenance and expensed through the profit and loss account, compared to €1.4 million in 2017. This results in a total renovation and repair investment of €9.6 million.

Financial Results

€ million (unless otherwise stated)

31 Dec 2018

31 Dec 2017

Gross rental income (including service charges)

22.7

23.7

Like-for-Like annualised rental income

16.6

15.2

Net contracted rental income

17.5

18.1

Profit before tax (PBT)

56.4

138.5

Reported EPS (€)

0.46

1.21

Investment property value

645.7

609.3

Net debt

168.4

195.1

Net LTV

26.1%

32.0%

EPRA NAV per share (€)

4.58

4.11

EPRA NAV per share (£)

4.11

3.65

Dividend per share (€ cents)

7.5

7.3

Dividend per share (£ pence)

6.7

6.4

EPRA NAV per share total return for period (€)

13.2%

53.0%

EPRA NAV per share total return for period (£)

11.4%

57.7%

Net contracted rental income for the year was 3.2% lower at €17.5 million (year to 31 December 2017: €18.1 million). This decrease reflects the sale of the Northern German Portfolio in April 2018, effectively offset by strong like-for-like rent per sqm growth of 7.4%.

The Company has reported a profit before tax for the period to 31 December 2018 of €56.4 million (2017: €138.5 million) which was positively affected by a revaluation gain of €66.1 million (2017: €157.4 million). The revaluation gain was lower than that experienced in 2017 and is primarily due to a moderation in the rate of market yield compression versus the prior year. Reported earnings per share for the period were €0.46 cents (2017: €1.21 cents).

EPRA NAV increases by 11.4%

Reported EPRA NAV per share rose by 11.4% in the period to €4.58 (£4.11) as at 31 December 2018 (31 December 2017: €4.11 (£3.65)). After taking into account the dividends paid in 2018 of €7.35 cents (GBP: 6.5p), which were paid in June and October 2018, the Euro EPRA NAV total return in the period was 13.2% (2017: 53.0%).

IFRS NAV per share rose by 2.3% in the period to €4.05 (£3.54) (31 December 2017: €3.96 (£3.52).

Dividend

The Company is pleased to have declared a final dividend of €5.15 cents per share (GBP 4.62 pence per share), (2017: €5.0 cents; (GBP 4.4 pence per share)), which is expected to be paid on or around 27 June 2019 to shareholders on the register at close of business on 7 June 2019, with an ex-dividend date of 6 June 2019. Taking into account the interim dividend paid in October 2018, the dividend for the year to 31 December 2018 is €7.5 cents per share (GBP 6.73 pence per share), (2017: €7.3 cents per share; (GBP 6.4 pence per share)).

Since listing on the London Stock Market in June 2015, and including the final dividend for 2018, €24.9 million has been returned to Shareholders. The dividend is paid from operating cash flows, including the disposal proceeds from condominium projects and the Company will seek to continue to provide its shareholders with a secure and progressive dividend over the medium term, subject to the distribution requirements for Non-Mainstream Pooled Investments.

Financing

As at 31 December 2018, the Company had gross borrowings of €195.3 million (31 December 2017: €222.3 million) and cash balances of €26.9 million (31 December 2017: €27.2 million) equating to a net debt of €168.4 million (31 December 2017: €195.1 million) and a net loan to value for the Portfolio of 26.1% (31 December 2017: 32.0%).

Nearly all loans are fixed using an interest rate hedge and, as at 31 December 2018, the blended interest rate of all loans across the Portfolio was 2.0%. The average remaining duration of the loan book at 31 December 2018 was 7.7 years (31 December 2017: 8.4 years). By 31 December 2018, all the Company's debt had been refinanced within the previous 24 months.

During the course of 2018, the following ten-year loan facilities were entered into in order to finance newly acquired properties:

· April 2018, €12.0 million facility;

· July 2018, €1.6 million facility, of which €0.3 million remains to be drawn; and

· December 2018, €7.5 million facility of which €0.9 million remained to be drawn at 31 December 2018 and was subsequently drawn in February 2019.

In March 2018, the Company successfully refinanced existing debt within PSPF Ltd. & Co.KG, against the properties based in Berlin. An equity release of €7.8 million, before costs, was obtained on the existing property portfolio, all of which was drawn by 31 December 2018.

Following the disposal of the non-core Central and Northern Germany assets, €40.5 million of the total proceeds of €73 million was used to repay debt, with the remainder being reinvested into the portfolio. Further single property disposals amounting to €4.1 million were also completed during the year with related debt of €3.1 million being repaid.

In November 2018, the Company notarised for disposal the final non-Berlin property for €3.9 million. The transaction completed in January 2019.There was no debt secured against the asset.

The Company is currently undertaking a substantive review of its financing requirements to support its future strategy and will update investors following the conclusion of this exercise.

Acquisitions and disposals

The Company has continued to grow in Berlin with a number of carefully targeted acquisitions in central locations which fulfil its strict acquisition criteria. In total, 222 units (210 residential and 12 commercial) were notarised during 2018 for an aggregate purchase price of €36.3 million, at an average price per sqm of €2,390, and annual fully occupied rent of €1.3 million.

The Company intends to continue with its strategy of acquiring in Berlin and, as at 23 April 2019, a further 14 units in Berlin had been notarised since the December 2018 year end for a purchase price of €2.4 million, representing a value per sqm of €2,956. Acquisitions have been financed using a combination of debt and cash reserves.

In April 2018 the Company completed the sale of its remaining Northern Germany assets for a cash consideration of €73.0 million, representing a 26% premium to the Jones Lang LaSalle pre-notarisation valuation. This portfolio, initially acquired in 2006/2007 for an aggregate purchase price of €38.7 million, consisted of 34 properties located in Bremen, Hannover, Hildesheim, Verden, Delmenhorst, Kiel, Oldenburg, Lüneburg and Lübeck.

Densification projects

Following the significant increase in rental values in recent years, the Property Advisor is in the process of conducting an exercise to examine the financial viability of new construction within the footprint of the existing portfolio. This could involve both attic conversions and new building construction on land surrounding buildings that are already owned by the Company.

So far, 26 buildings have been identified for attic conversion and permission has been granted for 39 new apartments, with a further 35 in planning. Permission is also being sought for the first new build project in the courtyard of a building already owned by the Company with potential to create 23 new units. Preliminary estimates of the gross development cost for all these projects are in the region of €30 million - €35 million. The Board is committed to ensuring that any decision to proceed with new construction or investment in existing assets will be based on the project meeting or exceeding the Company's financial return targets.

Condominium sales

The Company has continued with its strategy of crystallising the latent value within the portfolio through selectively reselling apartment blocks as individual units.

Across the Company's condominium projects, a total of 23 units were notarised for sale in 2018, with an aggregate sales value of €9.0 million, consistent with the strong sales figures in 2017 of €9.1 million. This represents an average value per sqm of €4,490, or €4,466 excluding commercial units and parking.

Condominium sales proceeds during 2018 represented a 24.2% premium to book value and the average price achieved per sqm for notarised condominiums was a 25.7% premium to the average valuation per sqm for properties in the Berlin portfolio as at 31 December 2018, confirming the potential for valuation creation through apartment privatisation.

These sales constitute a combination of vacant and occupied units and the Property Advisor expects to identify and prepare additional condominium projects for sale, either to tenants, or new buyers during 2019 in order to maintain similar proceeds to previous years.

Market outlook

The trend towards trade protectionism, slowing global growth and an uncertain Brexit outcome have impacted negatively on German GDP forecasts. After averaging 2.1% over the period 2014-2017, Germany's GDP growth slowed to 1.5% in 2018, and the European Commission forecasts this will cool further to 1.1% in 2019, before recovering to 1.7% in 2020. Although headwinds to German economic growth remain, the inherent strength of the German labour market continues, with unemployment levels expected to reduce further (from 5.2% during 2018 to 4.9% in 2019) and employment levels expected to rise.

Berlin's economic growth prospects remain relatively uncorrelated given its comparative under-reliance on manufacturing and skew towards the services sector as a source of job creation. This positive labour market development has been a key driver of Berlin's population growth. Between 2011 and 2017, its population increased by nearly 290,000 and the number of households by almost 200,000. The population is expected to continue to grow. According to the Senate administration, Berlin will require an additional 194,000 apartments by 2030.

Against a backdrop of strong population growth, medium-term demand for residential property will continue to outstrip supply, driven by a combination of high new-build construction costs, lack of available land and a shortage of new build permits. The net effect of this supply-demand imbalance should underpin the rental market and, in turn, create significant future reversionary potential within the Portfolio. This offers potential to improve rental incomes in the event that market rental values stabilise.

With an active market vacancy currently just over 1%, Berlin's regional government has reacted to supply shortage by implementing a growing number of regulatory measures such as:

· the exercise of pre-emptive purchase rights;

· additional designation of protected residential areas to restrict the partitioning and resale of rental blocks as condominiums.

There has recently been a well-documented grass-roots proposal in Berlin for a referendum which proposes to expropriate properties of large Berlin landlords with over 3,000 units under management. The Property Advisor continues to monitor developments in relation to the proposed referendum, but feels that since the Company owns 2,516 units, the outcome of the referendum is unlikely to affect the Portfolio.

The Company's strategy will continue to develop to ensure that it acts in a responsible manner, adhering at all times to relevant regulatory requirements and property laws.

Notwithstanding the fact that yield compression has moderated, the Property Advisor remains confident that the favourable Berlin demographics outlined above offer opportunity to further improve rental incomes and property values. This, combined with carefully selected Portfolio acquisitions and a continuation of selective condominium sales, leaves the Company well placed for the year ahead.

OUR BUSINESS MODEL

Actively Managing the Portfolio

Underpinning our strategy is a business model that involves our Property Advisor's active management of the portfolio of assets. The key stages of this process are; Acquire, Renovate, Optimise, and Reinvest.

ACQUIRE

The Company focuses on apartment buildings that are sometimes poorly maintained. Through significant reinvestment, the apartments are modernised to improve both the standard of accommodation for tenants and the look of the local neighbourhood. We focus on carefully selected central Berlin micro-locations which offer the potential for medium-term value creation through modernisation and renovation. The Company has historically focussed its acquisitions on properties built before 1914 (Altbau). Single properties, packages and portfolios are considered. Since listing on the London Stock Exchange in June 2015 the Company has notarised on properties with an aggregate valuation on acquisition of €206.3 million.

Acquisitions notarised since 2015 stock market listing

Year

Region

Purchase price (€)

Units

Sqm

Purchase price Per sqm (€)

Fully occupied yield

2015

Berlin

35,760,000

227

18,197

1,965

4.3%

2016

Berlin

78,305,000

634

41,406

1,891

4.3%

2017

Berlin

55,890,000

336

25,135

2,224

3.6%

2018

Berlin

36,320,000

222

15,195

2,390

3.5%

Total

206,275,000

1,419

99,933

2,064

4.0%

RENOVATE

Buildings acquired may require reinvestment to bring them up to modern standards. It can take several years for the Property Advisor's disciplined active asset management strategies to be fully reflected in the valuation of each acquired building.

The scope for value creation is clearly evidenced in buildings acquired during 2016. Acquisitions that had completed by 31 December 2016 were revalued by Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") as at 31 December 2018 at an average 97.2% premium to purchase prices. This compares with growth in the properties acquired before 2016 over the same period of 52.4%. This clearly demonstrates the scope for significant value creation that the Property Advisor can achieve through the selective acquisition and repositioning of Berlin properties.

We place our tenants' interests at the forefront of everything we do. Many of the buildings that we acquire are in poor condition, with a substantial backlog of underinvestment. We therefore seek to improve the standard of accommodation available to tenants through modernisation and renovation of apartments and, where appropriate, their communal areas.

Renovations are carried out sensitively, and we carefully assess each programme of building improvements to ensure that they are justified, avoiding excessive investment which might lead to unaffordable rent increases. Improvements are conducted on a rolling basis across the Portfolio and vary according to the condition of each building and its apartments. Refurbishment of occupied units is only carried out with full agreement from tenants.

Vacant units in poor condition are considered for full renovation and vacant attic space is reviewed for conversion to residential space. Depending on the level of historical under-investment, apartment improvements can involve heating system and boiler upgrades, new insulation, double glazing, new plumbing, kitchen and bathroom renewal, new flooring, and redecoration. Communal areas, both indoor and outdoor, are also reviewed for potential improvement. A single apartment generally costs between €20,000 and €30,000 to renovate, while an entire building renovation might cost up to €2 million.

OPTIMISE

After acquisition, the Property Advisor looks to realign these properties to maximise their potential within the Portfolio.

Realigning rents

For properties considered to be core rental buildings, vacant units are re-let after refurbishment at levels that at all times comply with relevant regulations. Tenant lists are reviewed carefully and, only where appropriate, rent increases are applied for, either where tenants are paying less than the statutory rent level (Mietspiegel), where modernisation has been undertaken (and these costs are allowed to be recouped), or where the lease contains provisions for indexation (Staffel).

Buildings that are re-let typically command a rental premium to in-place rental values. This "reversionary gap" reflects the significant investment in these buildings and their surroundings to bring them up to modern standards.

Berlin reletting premium

Year

Berlin portfolio

average rent (€ per sqm)

Berlin average new leases signed by quarter (€ per sqm)

2011

6.2

6.7

2012

6.6

7.9

2013

7.0

9.1

2014

7.4

9.8

2015

8.0

11.2

2016

7.7

10.6

2017

8.1

11.9

2018

8.5

12.0

Realigning through the creation of new living space

As well as acquiring buildings, the Company is now exploring ways to realign existing buildings within the existing portfolio by identifying opportunities to create new residential space. The substantial increase in rental and property values has created potential densification opportunities which could involve both attic conversions and new building construction on land surrounding buildings already owned by the Company.

REINVEST

The properties within the Portfolio are revalued each year with historical investment being reflected in revised property values. To the extent that additional borrowing can be secured on higher property values, a substantial portion are reinvested by way of acquisitions and improvements in the existing portfolio of buildings. For the year ended 2018, 50% of the rental income has been reinvested into the portfolio.

Buildings that no longer fit the strategic objectives of the Portfolio are considered for sale, either as blocks, or via the condominium strategy. Since listing on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange in June 2015, the Company has been progressively selling its non-Berlin assets. In aggregate these assets have been sold at an average 23.8% premium to trailing book value and the majority of the proceeds have been reinvested into further improvements in the Berlin portfolio and Berlin acquisitions.

Disposals notarised since 2015 stock market listing

Region

2015

(€)

2016

(€)

2017

(€)

2018

(€)

Premium to prior FY book value

Nuremberg & Furth

870,000

77.0%

Berlin (including Greater Area)

3,800,000

19.1%

Baden-Wuerttemberg

6,100,000

3,920,000

6.3%

Nuremberg & Furth

35,170,000

10.7%

Central & North Germany

84,050,000

32.9%

Total

870,000

3,800,000

125,320,000

3,920,000

23.8%

Creation of condominiums

In addition to its core rental business, the Company also selectively identifies a small number of condominium projects. The Company is committed to operating within the relevant regulatory and planning frameworks at all times during the condominium realignment process.

This strategy is considered where a significant differential exists between the market value of a rental unit within an apartment block and the resale value of a unit as a private apartment, or where there is limited opportunity to generate further value as a rental building. The process involves legally splitting the freeholds in a small number of selected buildings.

The sales comprise a combination of vacant and occupied units and can augment returns to reinvest in the Portfolio on further acquisitions. As at 31 December 2018, 90 units representing proceeds of €26.9 million had completed since condominium sales commenced in mid-2015.

Year

Condominium sales value €/sqm

Berlin rental portfolio value €/sqm

Sales Value (€m)

Premium to trailing book value (%)

2015

3,899

1,982

4.7

19.4

2016

4,427

2,150

5.5

33.3

2017

4,352

3,220

9.1

23.8

2018

4,566

3,576

9.9

24.2

THE CHANGING FACE OF BERLIN

During the past decade, Berlin has developed into one of Europe's most vibrant and dynamic cities. Economic and population growth have substantially outstripped nearly all other European cities. Today, services account for 85% of Berlin's economic output and growth in knowledge-based and future-oriented sectors offer a bright future for Berlin's economy and labour market compared with other European cities which have relied more heavily on manufacturing and exports.

Since 2009, employment has increased by more than 30% in aggregate and this development serves as a solid basis for residential market demand in Phoenix Spree's core Berlin residential market.

Whilst manufacturing accounts for one out of four jobs across Germany as a whole, it plays a subordinated role in Berlin, with only one out of eight employees employed in this sector. Berlin has clearly positioned itself as an innovation hub. As its "new world" economy continues to grow and flourish, the city's inward migration trends increasingly reflect the new skills demanded by the labour market. Employment growth has mainly taken place in services, where more than 200,000 jobs were newly created between 2013 and 2018. Almost half of these new jobs were in three services sectors only. First, professional, scientific and technical services; second, other business services; and third, the information and communications sector.

The changing population and employment demographics are reflected in Phoenix Spree's own tenant structure. Analysis of new tenancies signed during 2018 shows that new tenants attracted to Phoenix Spree's rental proposition are almost exclusively from the services sector, over 39% of new leases signed are by tenants that have relocated either from another German city or from another country and only 18% are native Berliners.

New leases signed in 2018 by tenant occupation

Employment sector

Percentage of tenants

Customer service

23%

Other services

20%

Students

16%

Education service

12%

Information Technology

11%

Health services

9%

Technical services

9%

New leases signed in 2018 by place of birth

Nationality

Percentage of tenants

Native Berliners

18%

Other German locations

42%

Other European Union countries

20%

Non-European Union but in Europe

6%

Other countries

14%

Despite the significant rental increases seen in Berlin in recent years, rental values remain relatively low by European standards and rent affordability remains high. For Phoenix Spree, analysis of all new leases signed during 2018 shows that the average tenant net income after tax is €43,200 and that the percentage of total rent to income stands at only 26%.

Average monthly rents remain among lowest of all major European cities with the average monthly rent per square metre of €9.8 significantly cheaper than other major European cities.

Monthly rents by European City

European City

2018 Monthly Rent (€ per sqm)

London

28.2

Edinburgh

19.5

Dublin

19.2

Paris

18.0

Barcelona

17.9

Birmingham

16.2

Amsterdam

16.0

Madrid

15.1

Rome

14.0

Frankfurt

13.3

Milan

12.0

Lisbon

10.6

Berlin

9.8

Vienna

9.4

Source: Knight Frank

Not only are rents comparatively low, but available household incomes are predicted to rise faster in Berlin than in any other European city over the next 10 years.

Average household income growth (% change 2018-2028)

European City

10 years Income Growth (%)

Berlin

35.9%

Birmingham

35.1%

Edinburgh

35.2%

Amsterdam

34.0%

London

33.1%

Barcelona

32.7%

Dublin

32.3%

Frankfurt

30.9%

Madrid

30.9%

Milan

29.3%

Lisbon

26.5%

Rome

25.9%

Paris

25.6%

Vienna

21.2%

Source: Knight Frank

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY

Phoenix Spree is committed to acting responsibly by balancing the different interests of all our key stakeholders and capturing this within our Company Values and business model.

Our Approach to Corporate Responsibility

We strive to strike a meaningful balance between proving a return to our investors and addressing our social and environmental impacts. We engage with our stakeholders to ensure we understand differing viewpoints and take this into consideration when making business decisions. We believe that this is not only the right way to approach business, but it will help us maintain a commercial advantage and enable us to be a sustainable company that delivers long term success.

Our business focusses on providing homes for people that are both comfortable and affordable. We often acquire properties that are in relatively poor condition and, through significant reinvestment, we modernise the apartments to improve the standard of accommodation for our tenants and improve the look of the local neighbourhood. Providing good customer service to our tenants and improving the sustainability of housing stock through renovation lies at the core of our business.

In 2018, we reviewed how sustainability is managed within our business and aligned these with the views of our stakeholders and business priorities to create our Company Values and our 'Better Futures' Corporate Responsibility (CR) Plan.

Whilst we are pleased with the progress we are making with the dedication of our partners; we look forward to further communication regarding our CR programme in the coming period.

Corporate Responsibility Governance

To ensure the successful delivery of our 'Better Futures' CR Plan within our business, relevant Policies have been created for each of the pillars, a measurement framework established to monitor progress and a structure put in place to ensure robust oversight.

We share the relevant policies with PMM, who in turn have created their own policies that are aligned with ours. We request that PMM periodically verifies that it has acted in accordance with the policies. Where PMM outsources any key functions to other business partners, it has likewise shared the policies with them and requested that they periodically verify that they have acted within the spirit of the relevant policies.

Structurally, PMM has established a CR Task Force that oversees the implementation of the plan across the business. This Task Force reports the progress on the CR Plan, at minimum twice a year, to Phoenix Spree's CR Sub-Committee, who in turn reports into the Company's Board.

For further information, please visit the company's website at www.phoenixspree.com.

PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

The Board recognises that effective risk evaluation and management needs to be foremost in the strategic planning and the decision-making process. In conjunction with the Property Advisor, key risks and risk mitigation measures are reviewed by the Board on a regular basis and discussed formally during Board meetings.

RISK

IMPACT

MITIGATION

MOVEMENT

Decline in property valuation

Economic, political, fiscal and legal issues can have a negative effect on property valuations. A decline in Group property valuations could negatively affect the valuation of the Portfolio and the ability of the Group to sell properties within the portfolio at valuations which satisfy the Group's investment objective.

The Property Advisor believes German housing affordability metrics remain favourable relative to other European countries and that German residential supply-demand dynamics are supportive, with limited supply of rental stock in urban locations putting upward pressure on rents.

Unchanged

Adverse interest rate movements

Future interest rate rises could increase the borrowing cost to the Group which, in turn, could negatively affect the Group's financial performance.

The Property Advisor has a record of securing financing across the Portfolio. The Group mitigates its exposure to adverse interest rate movements through the use of interest rate swaps or by fixing its interest rates. All new debt drawn in the year was fixed using interest rates swaps. The average blended interest rate of the Group's debt profile is now 2.0% with a blended maturity of 7.7 years. During the past 24 months, 100% of the Group's debt has been refinanced.

Unchanged

Inability to sell condominiums

Inability to sell condominiums in the Berlin market due to changing political or economic conditions could affect the Company's cashflows in the short term, which may affect the ability of the company to fund its capital expenditure programme or fund its annual dividend.

The Company currently has split over half the properties in the German land registry, the final step to allowing the sale of properties as individual condominiums. The Property Advisor reviews the condominium profile of the Company on a monthly basis and the Company can onboard new condominium properties quickly for sale if required.

Unchanged

Breach of covenant requirements

Should any fall in revenues result in the Group breaching financial covenants given to any lender, the Group may be required to repay such borrowings in whole or in part, together with any related costs.

The Group has no loan to value covenants on debt held. The group does have debt service coverage covenants on its finance with DZ Hyp bank which are assessed annually in January. DZ Hyp loan covenant requirements have always been met with significant headroom, and were most recently met in January 2019, again with significant headroom. The Property Advisor regularly monitors all debt service coverage covenants and would seek to take remedial measures in advance of any covenant being breached.

Decreasing

Insufficient capital to support expansion

Lack of capital may restrict the ability of the Group to pursue future investment opportunities consistent with the overall investment objectives.

At year end the Group had cash reserves of €26.9m and has signed debt in 2018 of €28.9m, €27.6 of which was drawn. The Group always maintains very conservative long-term forecasts regarding its cash balances to ensure a three year viability projection. Taking this into account, and current and future spending commitment on improving the portfolio and returns to shareholders, without further debt the Group has limited capacity for acquisitions. It continues to look for methods to achieve further capital on an ongoing basis.

Increasing

Insufficient investment opportunity

Availability of potential investments which meet the Group's investment objective can be negatively affected by supply and demand dynamics within the market for German residential property and the state of the German economy and financial markets more generally.

The Property Advisor has been active in the German residential property market since 2006. It has specialised acquisition personnel and an extensive network of industry contacts including property agents, industry consultants and the principals of other investment funds. It is expected that future acquisitions will be sourced from these channels.

Unchanged

Changes to property and tenant law

Property laws remain under constant review by the new "Red-Red-Green" coalition government in Germany and future changes to property regulation and rent controls for new tenancies could negatively affect rental values and property valuations.

The Property Advisor regularly monitors the impact that existing and proposed regulation could have on future rental values and property planning applications. This includes the potential referendum in Berlin which is discussed on page 11 of this annual report. In order to reduce the dependency upon statutory rent increases, the majority of the new leases signed within the Portfolio include annual indexation (or 'Staffel') increases.

Increasing

Occupancy and tenant risk

Unexpected vacancy and tenant default trends across the Portfolio could lead to a rental income shortfall which, in turn, may adversely impact Group profitability and investment returns.

The Property Advisor implements strict vetting and screening processes to improve tenant quality across the Portfolio. Where appropriate, apartments becoming vacant are renovated and modernised and then re-let at rents which are at a significant premium to that paid by outgoing tenants.

Decreasing

Reliance on the Property Advisor and its key personnel

The Group's future performance depends on the success of the Property Advisor's strategy, skill, judgement and reputation. The departure of one or more key employees may have an adverse effect on the performance of the Group and any diminution in the Property Advisor's reputation may have an adverse effect on the Group's performance.

Since Listing on the London Stock Exchange, the Property Advisor has expanded headcount through the recruitment of several additional experienced London and Berlin-based personnel. Additionally, senior Property Advisor personnel and their families retain a stake in the Group, aligning their interests with other key stakeholders. In November 2018 the Group announced that it had signed a new Property Advisor agreement with PMM, committing the Property Advisor to the Fund for the foreseeable future.

Unchanged

Reputational risk

Adverse publicity and inaccurate media reporting could reflect negatively on stakeholders' perception of the Group, its strategy and its key personnel.

The Group has retained an external public relations consultancy and press releases are approved by the Board prior to release. The Group maintains regular communication with key shareholders and conducts presentations and roadshows to provide investors with relevant information on the Group, its strategy and key personnel. The Group also has a dedicated CSR committee of the Board which ensures the company ethos is in line with societal expectations.

Unchanged

Macro economic environment

A deterioration in economic growth and a recessionary environment could adversely affect tenant demand and vacancy, leading to a reduction in rental and property values.

Although the Board and Property Advisor cannot control external macroeconomic risks, economic indicators are constantly monitored by both the Board and Property Advisor and Group strategy is tailored accordingly. The Fund is a Jersey & Guernsey based entity operating in Germany, and therefore Brexit should not affect the fund as it currently operates outside the UK. However, the uncertainty surrounding Brexit continues to affect the macroeconomic environment around Europe and the situation continues to be monitored by both the Board and Property Advisor

Increasing

Non- compliance with new regulatory accounting and taxation legislation

Failure to identify and respond to the introduction of new financial regulation in a timely manner. Risk of reputational damage, penalties or fines.

The Group employs internal compliance and corporate governance advisors to provide updates and boardroom briefings on regulatory changes likely to impact the Group. The Group works closely with external accountants and tax advisors to keep up to date with changes to financial regulation in the UK, Channel Islands and Germany.

Review of IT systems and infrastructure in place to ensure these are as robust as possible. Service Providers are required to report to the board on request on their financial controls and procedures. Service providers are also required to hold detailed risk and controls registers regarding their IT systems. The board is currently reviewing its IT procedures and controls for the 2019 financial year.

Increasing

Directors' report

The Directors are pleased to present their Annual Report and the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2018.

General information

The Company is a public limited company and incorporated in Jersey, Channel Islands under the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991. The Company was admitted to the premium segment of the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange on 15 June 2015.

The Group's objective is to generate an attractive return for shareholders through the acquisition and active management of high-quality pre-let properties in Germany. The Group is primarily invested in the residential market, supplemented with selective investments in commercial property. The majority of commercial property within the portfolio is located within residential and mixed-use properties.

Dividends

The Directors recommend a final dividend of €5.15 cents (2017: €5.0 cents) per Ordinary Share to be paid on or around 27 June 2019 to ordinary shareholders on the register on 7 June 2019.

The Directors declared a dividend of €5.0 cents per share on 26 April 2018, paid on 29 June 2018 to ordinary shareholders on the register on 8 June 2018 and a further dividend of €2.35 cents per share on 26 September 2018, paid on 19 October 2018 to ordinary shareholders on the register on 5 October 2018.

Details of any arrangements under which adirectorof thecompanyhas waived or agreed to waive any emoluments from thecompanyor anysubsidiary undertaking.Where adirectorhasagreed to waive future emoluments, details of such waiver together with those relating to emoluments which were waived during theperiod under review.

No such waivers

Details required in the case of any allotment for cash ofequity securitiesmade duringthe period under review otherwise than to the holders of thecompany's equity sharesin proportion to their holdings of suchequity sharesand which has not been specifically authorised by thecompany'sshareholders. This information must also be given for any major unlisted subsidiary.

No such share allotments

Wherealisted companyhas listed sharesin issue and is asubsidiary undertakingof anothercompany, detailsof the participation by the parent undertakingin any placing made during the period under review.

Not applicable

Details of any contractof significance subsisting during the period under review:
(a) to which the listed company, or one of itssubsidiary undertakings, is a party and in which a director of the listed company is or was materially interested; and
(b) between the listed company, or one of its subsidiary undertakings, and a controlling shareholder.

a) Notes 27,33 to the accounts

b) No controlling shareholder, not applicable

Details of contracts for the provision of services to the listed company or any of its subsidiaryundertakings by the controlling shareholder.

No controlling shareholder, not applicable

Details of any arrangementunder which a shareholder has waived or agreed to waive any dividends, where a shareholder has agreed to waive future dividends, details of such waiver together with those relating to dividends which are payable during the period under review.

No such agreements

Board statement in respect of relationship agreement with the controlling shareholder.

No controlling shareholder, not applicable

Corporate Governance

The Directors have prepared a statement on how the UK Corporate Governance Code has been applied, which is set out on pages 35 to 44.

Financial instruments

Details of the financial risk management objectives and policies followed by the Directors can be found in note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.

Events after the reporting date

· In April 2019, the Company exchanged contracts for the acquisition of one individual property in Berlin for the purchase price of €2.4 million. The property is still awaiting completion.

· The Company had exchanged contracts for the acquisition of one property in Berlin with a purchase price of €2.2 million prior to the balance sheet date, which as at balance sheet date had not yet completed. The purchase completed in January 2019.

· In Q1 2019, the Company exchanged contracts for the sale of one commercial unit and one residential unit in BoxhagenerStraße with an aggregated purchase price of €1.9 million. The sale of these units subsequently completed in April 2019.

· The Company had exchanged contracts for the sale of three condominiums in Berlin with aggregated consideration of €1.1 million prior to the reporting date. The sale of these units subsequently completed in Q1 2019.

· The Company exchanged contracts for the disposal of the last non-Berlin property for the sale price of €3.9 million prior to the reporting date, the sale of this property subsequently completed in January 2019.

· In February 2019, the Company drew down the final €0.9 million portion of the €7.5 million loan with Berliner Sparkasse. €6.6 million of the debt was drawn down in December 2018.

Auditor

Each of the Directors at the date of approval of this Annual Report has taken all the steps that he or she ought to have taken as a Director in order to make him or herself aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Group's auditor is aware of that information. The Directors are not aware of any relevant audit information which has not been disclosed to the auditor.

RSM UK Audit LLP has expressed its willingness to continue in office as auditor and a resolution to reappoint them will be proposed at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting.

Viability Statement

The Directors have assessed the viability of the Group over a three-year period. The Directors have chosen three years because that is the period over which the Group has sufficiently robust forecasts as part of its business plan. The Viability Statement is based on a robust assessment of those risks that would threaten the business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity of the Group. For the purposes of the Viability Statement the Directors have considered, in particular, the impact of the following factors affecting the projections of cash flows for the three-year period ending 31 December 2021:

a) the potential operating cash flow requirement of the Group;

b) seasonal fluctuations in working capital requirements;

c) property vacancy rates;

d) rent arrears and bad debts;

e) capital and administration expenditure (excluding potential acquisitions as set out below) during the period; and

f) condominium sales proceeds.

The Directors recognise that the projections of cash flows do not include the impact of further potential property acquisitions over the three-year period, as these acquisitions are ad hoc and discretionary in nature. In this respect, the Directors complete a formal review of the working capital headroom of the Group for each potential acquisition.

On the basis of the above, and assuming the principal risks are managed or mitigated as expected, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the three-year period of their assessment.

Registered office

13-14 Esplanade

St Helier

Jersey

JE1 1EE

Channel Islands

Corporate Governance Statement

This Corporate Governance Statement comprises pages 35 to 44 and forms part of the Directors' Report.

To comply with the UK Listing Regime, the Company must comply with Listing Rule 9.8.6(5) R which requires the Company to apply the main principles of the UK Corporate Governance Code ('the Code') most recently published in July 2018 and report to shareholders how the Company has applied these principles or explain any departures therefrom.

On 16 July 2018, the Financial Reporting Council ('FRC') published the 2018 Code of Corporate Governance. The Code is available for download from the Financial Reporting Council's ('FRC') website www.frc.org.uk.

The Board intends to adopt The AIC Code of Corporate Governance (the AIC Code) for the accounting period beginning 1 January 2019. The Board deems the AIC Code more relevant with respect to the governance of investment companies.

The Board has considered the principles and recommendations of the Code. During the year, the Company has complied with all of the provisions of the Code except as set out below;

· the role of the Chief Executive and Executives of the Board;

· Executive Directors' remuneration;

· the internal audit function;

· the composition of the Audit Committee and Risk Committee (rectified during 2018).

The Board considers that the provisions relating to the chief executive and executive directors' role and remuneration are not relevant to the Company, as the running of PSD's business is outsourced to third parties and there are no executive directors. The objective of the Code to separate the roles of the chairman who manages and provides leadership to the Board, and the running of PSDL, is achieved because the Chairman is independent from the third-party providers.

PSDL does not currently have an internal audit function as the Board believe that it can ensure that PSDL's risk management, governance and internal control processes are operating effectively without this. This is because PSDL's business is conducted by relatively few individuals (through the outsourced service providers) who report to the Board, and its operations are not complex. However, if PSDL increases in size, the appointment of an appropriately qualified and resourced internal audit department will be, and is currently being, considered. Ultimately this role will be widened to encompass reviews of the efficiency of operations and to make recommendations on rationalisation of the business. If established, such internal audit department would report directly to the Audit Committee.

The members of the Audit and Risk Committees have been selected for their experience and expertise in relation to the risks, financial reporting and internal controls relating to PSDL. The members bring specific experience in relation to the property investment sector and externally managed structures which have been found to be invaluable to each Committee in identifying risks and assessing the mitigating controls which have been established.

Board Leadership and Company Purpose

In accordance with the Code's Principles A, B, C, D & E following the changes to its composition in 2018, the Board was considered wholly independent for the year 2018 with no representation of external service providers on the Board. From 7 March 2019 Quentin Spicer was no longer considered to be an Independent Non-executive director due to his length of service exceeding 10 years. The Board, however, consider his detailed knowledge of the company a significant asset and are happy for him to continue as a non-executive director for the coming period. The board assesses the basis on which the Company generates and preserves value over the long-term. Additionally, the board considers and addresses the opportunities and risks to the future success of the Company, along with the sustainability of the Company's business model and how its governance contributes to the delivery of its strategy.

This is achieved by considering the following matters:

· the overall objectives of the Company as described under the sections headed "Our Strategy" & "Business Model" in the Strategic Report, and the strategy for fulfilling those objectives within an appropriate risk framework in light of market conditions prevailing from time to time;

· the appointment of the Property Advisor, administrator and other appropriately skilled service providers and to monitor their effectiveness through regular reports and meetings; and

· the key elements of the Group's performance including NAV and EPRA NAV growth and the payment of dividends.

Further to the above the Board has adopted a Diversity Policy which sets out the Board's approach to diversity in board composition confirming that the Board would make any new appointments on merit taking into consideration gender diversity.

The Company has no direct employees therefore is not required to monitor culture in this respect, however the Board recognises its wider responsibility to demonstrate to shareholders that it is operating responsibly, managing its social and environmental impacts for the benefit of all stakeholders. Following a thorough review of how sustainability is managed within the Company, a "Better Futures" Corporate Responsibility Plan has been developed. This will provide a framework to measure existing activities better while adding new initiatives to improve overall sustainability.

Additionally, the Board is mindful of culture within each of its service providers and stakeholders and where it is not satisfied that policy, practices or behaviours are aligned with the Company's purpose, values and strategy, the Board will seek assurance that management have taken corrective action.

The Board has overall responsibility for maximising the Group's success by directing and supervising the affairs of the business and meeting the appropriate interests of shareholders and relevant stakeholders, while enhancing the value of the Group and also ensuring protection of investors.

Within the Annual Report and Financial Statements, the Directors have set out the Group's investment objective and policy and have reported how the Board and its delegated Committees operate and how the Directors review the risk environment within which the Group operates and set appropriate risk controls. Furthermore, the Board has sought to provide further information to enable shareholders to understand the Group's business and financial performance better. The Board also maintains a formal schedule of matters specifically reserved solely for their decision.

The Chairman shall also be responsible for the promotion of a culture of openness and debate, for ensuring that the Directors receive accurate, timely and clear information and for ensuring that there is adequate time available for the discussion of agenda items at each Board meeting.

The Board believes that the maintenance of good relations with both institutional and retail shareholders is important for the long-term prospects of the Group. The Board receives feedback on the views of shareholders from its corporate broker. Through this process the Board seeks to monitor the views of shareholders and to ensure an effective communication programme. The Board shall seek to utilise stakeholder communication to inform them of the decisions that the Company and Board takes, whether about the products or services it provides, or about its strategic direction, its long-term health, and the society in which it operates. The Board agrees that stakeholder engagement will strengthen the business and promote its long-term success to the benefit of stakeholders and shareholders alike.

The Chair is open to discussions on governance and strategy with major Shareholders and the other Directors shall also be provided the opportunity to attend these meetings

The Board believes that the Annual General Meeting provides an appropriate forum for investors to communicate with the Board and encourages participation.

The Group regularly reviews its shareholder profile. Shareholders may contact the Company directly through the Investor section of the Company's website www.phoenixspree.com.

The Board identifies and manages conflicts of interest, including those resulting from significant shareholdings, and also ensures that the influence of third parties does not compromise or override independent judgement.

If a Board recommendation for a resolution receives 20% or more of votes cast against it, the Company will explain, when announcing voting results, any actions it intends to take to consult shareholders in order to understand the reasons behind the result. No later than six months after the shareholder meeting, the Company will publish an update on the views received from shareholders and any actions taken. The Board will then provide a final summary in the Annual Report and Financial Statements and, if applicable, in the explanatory notes to resolutions at the next shareholder meeting, on the impact the feedback has had on the decisions the Board has taken and any actions or resolutions that are to be proposed.

Where Directors have concerns about the operation of the Board or the management of the Company that cannot be resolved, their concerns are recorded in the Board minutes. On resignation, a non-executive director will also provide a written statement to the Chair, for circulation to the board, if they have any such concerns in connection with resignation.

Division of Responsibilities

In adherence with the Codes Principles F, G, H & I, following the appointment of two new independent Directors in January 2018 and a further appointment in April 2018, the Board comprised five non-executive Directors, one of whom also acts as Chairman of the Company. The Chairman is Robert Hingley, who is considered to be independent for the purposes of Listing Rule 15 and Provision 9 of the Code as he has neither current nor historical employment with the Property Advisor nor any current directorships in any other investment funds managed by the Property Advisor. Listing Rule 15 requires there to be a majority of independent directors on the board as a whole which was not in place until the new appointments. The Chair ensures the Directors receive accurate, timely and clear information.

On 24 January 2018, the Company announced the appointments of two further independent non-executive Directors, Charlotte Valeur and Jonathan Thompson. At the same time, Matthew Northover, a non-independent Director, stepped down from the board to focus on the business of the Property Advisor. Furthermore, on 17 April 2018, Monique O'Keefe was appointed as an independent non-executive Director and chair of the Corporate Responsibility Committee, and both Richard Prosser and Andrew Weaver stepped down from the board.

Charlotte Valeur is the senior independent Non-executive Director. The Board has evaluated her independence and considers Charlotte to remain independent.

The Board considers its current Non-executive Directors to be of sufficient calibre and number for their views to be of sufficient weight and that no individual or small group can dominate the Board's decision-making process. Their qualifications and experience are relevant to their directorships and in their appointments to the Committees where applicable.

Due to his 10-year tenure of service on the Board, Quentin Spicer was deemed to be no longer independent. The Board however considers his detailed knowledge of the company a significant asset and is happy for him to continue as a non-executive director for the coming period.

The Non-executive Directors' terms and conditions of appointment are available for inspection at the

Company's registered office on request and will be available at the forthcoming AGM.

The Directors believe that the Board has an appropriate balance of skills, experience and independence to discharge its duties and provide effective strategic leadership and proper governance of the Company. The Board shall ensure that it conducts its business at all times with only the interests of the Shareholders in mind and independently of any other associations.

Independence of Non-executive Directors

The Code states that the Board should identify in the annual report each non-executive director it considers to be independent and should consider whether there are any relationships or circumstances that are likely to affect a Director's independence. On 7 March 2019 Quentin Spicer was no longer considered as an Independent Non-executive director by the board due to his length of service exceeding 10 years.

The senior independent director is to provide a sounding board for the chair and serve as an intermediary for the other directors and shareholders. Led by the senior independent director, the non-executive directors will meet without the chair present at least annually to appraise the chair's performance, and on other occasions as necessary.

Non-executive Directors' shareholdings

The Board has assessed that the holdings of the Directors are not significant and believes such levels of investment should not raise questions regarding their independence. The Board considers that Directors owning shares in the Company directly aligns them with the interests of the shareholders.

The responsibilities of the chair, senior independent director, board and committees are clear and set out in writing, after they are agreed by the board. They can be found on the Company's website, www.phoenixspree.com.

When considering any new appointments, the board takes into account any other demands on directors' time. Prior to appointment, any significant commitments are disclosed along with an indication of the time involved. Additionally, any external appointments are not undertaken without prior approval of the board. Any reasons for permitting significant appointments will be explained further in this report as and when the time arises.

All directors have access to the advice of the Company Secretary, who is responsible for advising the Board on all governance matters. Both the appointment and removal of the Company Secretary would be a matter for the whole Board.

Composition, succession and evaluation

In adherence with the Codes Principles J, K & L, the Board has established a Nomination and Remuneration Committee which is chaired by Quentin Spicer with Robert Hingley, Charlotte Valeur, Jonathan Thompson and Monique O'Keefe as members.

The Nomination and Remuneration Committee met twice during the year.

As at the year-end there were five Directors, 3 of whom are male and 2 are female. The Directors have agreed that appointments to the Board should be made on the basis of the Group's specific needs based on merit, without reference to age, gender or religious belief. Charlotte Valeur and Jonathan Thompson were appointed to the Board on 24 January 2018 (with Matthew Northover stepping down) and Monique O'Keefe was appointed on 17 April 2018 (with Richard Prosser and Andrew Weaver stepping down).

Re-election

All newly appointed Directors shall stand for election by the shareholders at the next Annual General Meeting following their appointment. There are provisions in the Company's Articles of Association which require Directors to seek re-election on a periodic basis, however, in accordance with the Code all other Directors shall also offer themselves for annual re-election. There is no limit on length of service, nor is there any upper age restriction on Directors. The names of all Directors standing for appointment or reappointment shall be accompanied by sufficient biographical details and the specific reasons why their contribution is, and continues to be, important to the company's long-term sustainable success in order to enable shareholders to make an informed decision.

The Board considers that there is significant benefit to the Group arising from continuity and experience among Directors, and accordingly does not intend to introduce restrictions based on age or tenure. It does, however, believe that shareholders should be given the opportunity to review membership of the Board on a regular basis.

After the most recent appointments, the Board is satisfied that all the Board members standing for re-election should be re-elected as they have the right skills and experience to continue to manage the Group. The Board maintains its right to appoint further members if deemed necessary and considers succession on a regular basis.

The Board has implemented a process of formal evaluation for individual Directors, the Committees and the processes utilised by the Board itself. This is undertaken by the Chair and the Audit Committee.

The Board areas of evaluation include:

· Board composition and quality;

· Overall strategy, performance and risk;

· Shareholder value;

· Governance;

· Board meetings;

· Support and relations with suppliers;

· Personal evaluation;

· Chair's evaluation.

The process of performance evaluation is designed to consider all elements of performance including any perceived shortcomings, training or development needs and unforeseen tasks and responsibilities that have arisen during the year.

The Chairman shall act on the results of the evaluation by recognising the strengths and addressing any weaknesses of the Board. Each Director shall engage with the process and take appropriate action where development needs have been identified.

The Chairman and the Board have agreed to regular externally facilitated board evaluations being undertaken, which shall occur as necessary under the requirements of the Code. Jones Lang LaSalle is the appointed external property valuer, it has no connection either to the Company, or to any of the Directors of the Company.

While no KPIs are set for individual Non-executive Directors, the time, effort and application to the performance of their duties for the Board and Committees is taken into account.

The Board, the Committees and the management process - performance evaluation

In line with the requirements of the Code, the Company has implemented annual performance evaluations of the Board, the Committees and the processes utilised by each forum. The aim of the evaluation is to recognise the strengths and address any weaknesses and consider improvements to the management process. The evaluation is designed to ensure that the Board meets its objectives and effectiveness is maximised.

The evaluations focus on the following issues:

· the frequency of meetings and the business transacted;

· the workload of each forum;

· diversity and how effectively members work together to achieve objectives;

· the timing, level of detail and appropriateness of information put before meetings;

· the reporting process from Committees to the Board and delegation process itself;

· the levels of expertise available within the membership of the Committees and the need for, selection of and the use of external consultants; and

· the effectiveness of internal controls following the review and report of the Audit Committee.

Following the changes to the Board, and if any potential future changes are made, due consideration to the evaluation process will be made.

Audit, risk and internal control

Audit and Risk Committee

Neither Matthew Northover nor Richard Prosser, up to the dates of their resignations, were considered to be independent Members of the Board as a consequence of their relationship with the Property Advisor or the Administrator respectively. However, during the financial year, Jonathan Thompson, an independent Non-executive Director, has been appointed to chair the Audit Committee, and Charlotte Valeur the Risk Committee, meaning that the Company will comply with the Code principles and recommendations on the composition of the Committee in future periods.

On 17 April 2018, Monique O'Keefe joined both the Audit and Risk Committee and the committees split to become a separate Audit Committee and Risk Committee.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is chaired by Jonathan Thompson with Quentin Spicer, Charlotte Valeur and Monique O'Keefe as members. The Audit Committee meets no less than three times a year and, if required, meetings can also be attended by the Property Advisor and the external auditor. The Board considers that Jonathan's recent and relevant experience, both in the sector, and in financial reporting, make him suitably qualified to chair the Audit Committee.

In adherence with the Code's Principles M & N, the Audit Committee is responsible for ensuring that the accounting policies of the Company are appropriate and being followed, disclosures provided are clear and for reviewing the half-year and annual financial statements before their submission to the Board. In addition, the Audit Committee is specifically charged under its terms of reference to advise the Board on the terms and scope of the appointment of the auditors, including their remuneration, independence and objectivity and reviewing with the auditors the results and effectiveness of the audit. The Committee reviews and provides advice on whether the content of the annual report and accounts is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for Shareholders to assess the Company's performance, business model and strategy.

The Group does not currently have an internal audit function, as the Board believes that it can ensure that the Group's risk management, governance and internal control processes are operating effectively without this. This is because the Group's business is conducted by relatively few individuals (through the outsourced service providers) who report to the Board, and its operations are not complex at present. However, if the Group increases in size or complexity, the appointment of an appropriately qualified and resourced internal audit department will be, and is being, considered. Ultimately this role will be widened to encompass reviews of the efficiency of operations and to make recommendations on rationalisation of the business. Once established, such internal audit department would report directly to the Audit Committee.

The Board is satisfied that the Annual Report and Financial Statements, taken as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group's position and performance, business model and strategy.

Risk Committee

The Risk Committee is chaired by Charlotte Valeur with Quentin Spicer, Jonathan Thompson and Monique O'Keefe as members. The Risk Committee meets no less than three times a year and, if required, meetings can also be attended by the Property Advisor.

In adherence with the Code's Principle O, The Risk Committee is responsible for advising the Board on the Company's overall risk appetite, tolerance and strategy. The Risk Committee will also oversee and advise the Board on the current risk assessment processes, ensuring that both qualitative and quantitative metrics are used. Where requested by the Board, the Committee shall review and provide advice on whether the content of the risk management and internal control report, as contained in the annual report, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for Shareholders to assess the Company's performance, business model and strategy.

The Members of both the Audit and Risk Committees have been selected for their experience and expertise in relation to the risks, financial reporting and internal controls relating to the Group. The Members bring specific experience in relation to the property investment sector and externally managed structures which has been found to be invaluable to the Committee in identifying risks and assessing the mitigating controls which have been established.

Remuneration

In adherence with the Code's Principles P Q & R the Board considers that the provisions relating to the Chief Executive and Executive Directors' roles and remuneration are not relevant to the Group, as the running of the Group's business is outsourced to third parties and there are no executive directors. The objective of the Code, to separate the roles of the Chairman who runs the Board, and the running of the Group, is achieved because the Chairman is independent from the third-party providers. The remuneration of the directors and the third-party providers is disclosed and explained in the notes to the financial statements.

Effectiveness

The Company holds a minimum of four Board meetings per year to discuss general management, structure, finance, corporate governance, marketing, risk management, compliance, asset allocation and gearing, contracts and performance. The reports provided by the outsourced providers are the principal source of regular information for the Board enabling it to determine policy and to monitor performance, compliance and controls, which are supplemented by communication and discussions throughout the year. The Board carries out internal evaluations of its effectiveness which are described on page 39 of the annual report. Furthermore, the Board has contracted BoardAlpha to carry out an external review of the Board's effectiveness. The scope of this external effectiveness evaluation is in line with the scope set out on page 39.

Committees of the Board

The terms of reference for the Board Committees are available on the Company website at www.phoenixspree.com.

Property Valuation Committee

The Company has established a Property Valuation Committee. The Property Valuation Committee is responsible for reviewing the property valuations prepared by the valuer and any further matters relating to the valuation of the Portfolio.

During 2018, the Property Valuation Committee's composition changed, following the appointment of the Board's new independent directors. It continued to be chaired by Quentin Spicer, with Charlotte Valeur and Jonathan Thompson joining as members on 24 January 2018. Richard Prosser ceased to be a member of the Property Valuation Committee following his resignation from the Board on 17 April 2018 and Monique O'Keefe and Robert Hingley were both appointed.

The Property Valuation Committee met four times during the year and reported to the Board on its duties, which are to:

· receive any commentary from the Property Advisor and/or Directors following the review meeting held with the external valuer;

· register and discuss with the Property Advisor any asset specific issues highlighted by the valuer;

· review material, unexplained movements in the Group's Net Asset Value and to recommend the release of the Net Asset Value announcement following that review;

· review compliance with applicable standards and guidelines including those issued by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the UKLA Listing Rules;

· review the findings and any recommendations or statements made by the valuer;

· review at least annually, consider and make recommendations to the Board, in relation to the appointment, remuneration, re-appointment and removal of the Group's valuer. The Committee shall oversee the selection process for a new valuer and if a valuer resigns the Committee shall investigate the issues leading to this and decide whether any action is required;

· consider any further matters relating to the valuation of the properties.

The Committee reported to the Board its findings on the property valuation and the Committee was satisfied with the independent valuation report and values associated with all properties of the Group.

Corporate Social Responsibility Committee

On 17 April 2018, the Company formed a Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee is chaired by Monique O'Keefe with Jonathan Thompson, Charlotte Valeur, Robert Hingley and Quentin Spicer as members. The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee meets no less than three times a year.

The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee is responsible for approving a strategy for discharging the Company's corporate and social responsibilities, overseeing the creation of appropriate policies and supporting measures along with ensuring that the policies are regularly reviewed and updated in line with national and international regulations. Where requested by the Board, the Committee shall review and provide advice on whether the content of the CR report, as contained in the Company's annual report, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the information necessary for Shareholders to assess the Company's performance, business model and strategy.

Management Engagement Committee

In accordance with the Code, the Management Engagement Committee was established to review the performance of the Property Advisor on an annual basis. It was previously chaired by Robert Hingley, with Richard Prosser and Quentin Spicer as members. On 24 January 2018, the Management Engagement Committee's composition has changed with Robert Hingley remaining as Chair but with Charlotte Valeur and Jonathan Thompson joining as members. Richard Prosser ceased to be a member of the Management Engagement Committee following his resignation from the Board on 17 April 2018 and Monique O'Keefe was appointed.

The Management Engagement Committee met three times during the year and reported to the Board on its duties, which are to:

· monitor and evaluate the Property Advisor's performance and compliance with the terms of the Property Advisory Agreement and, if necessary, provide appropriate guidance, which may include considering the merit of obtaining an independent appraisal of the Property Advisor's services on an annual basis;

· review the terms of the Property Advisory Agreement from time to time to ensure that the terms thereof conform with market and industry practice and remain in the best interests of shareholders and make recommendations to the Board on any variation to the terms of the Property Advisory Agreement which it considers necessary or desirable;

· review and make appropriate recommendations to the Board as to whether the continuing appointment of the Property Advisor is in the best interests of the Group and Shareholders, and the reasons for this recommendation;

· review the level and method of remuneration, the basis on which the performance fees (if any) are calculated and the notice period of the Property Advisor, giving due consideration to the competitive position of the Group against its peer group;

· consider whether the asset and estate management fee should be based on gross assets, net assets or market capitalisation;

· ensure that the basis of any performance fee or performance related element does not encourage excessive risk and that it rewards demonstrably superior performance by the Property Advisor in managing the portfolio against the Group's stated objectives when compared to a suitable benchmark or peer group;

· ensure that a sound system of risk management and internal control is maintained and reviewed annually in order to safeguard shareholders' investment and the Group's assets;

· review, consider and recommend any amendments to the terms of the appointment and remuneration of providers of other services to the Group; and

· consider any points of conflict which may arise between the providers of services to the Group.

The Committee keeps under review the performance of the Property Advisor and the level and terms of the management fee. On 27 November 2018 the Group announced that it had signed a new contract with the Property Advisor, effective from 1 January 2019. Further information on this contract can be seen in note 33 to the Financial Statements, and on http://www.phoenixspree.com. In the opinion of the Directors, the continuing appointment of the Property Advisor on the terms agreed is in the interests of shareholders as a whole. The Performance Period as set out in the previous Property Advisory agreement ended on 30 June 2018. According to the new agreement, the Performance Period starts on the 1 July 2018, ending on 31 December 2020. The Performance Period commences benchmarked from the EPRA Net Asset Value of the Company as at 30 June 2018.

Board and Committee meetings

The table below sets out the number of Board, Audit Committee, Risk Committee, Property Valuation Committee, Management Engagement Committee and Nomination and Remuneration Committee meetings held during the year ended 31 December 2018 and, where appropriate, the number of such meetings attended by each Director.

Scheduled Board

Audit

Risk

Held

Attend

Held

Attend

Held

Attend

R Hingley

4

4

-

-

1

1

R Prosser

1

1

-

-

-

-

Q Spicer

4

4

4

4

1

1

J Thompson

4

4

4

4

1

1

C Valeur

4

3

4

2

1

1

M O'Keefe

4

4

4

4

1

1

A Weaver

1

1

-

-

-

-

Property Valuation

Management Engagement

Nomination & Remuneration

Held

Attend

Held

Attend

Held

Attend

R Hingley

4

4

3

3

2

2

R Prosser

4

1

3

-

-

-

Q Spicer

4

4

3

2

2

2

J Thompson

4

4

3

2

2

2

C Valeur

4

3

3

3

2

2

M O'Keefe

4

2

3

3

2

2

A Weaver

-

-

-

-

-

-

During the year, there have been several additional ad-hoc meetings which the directors were required to attend. These meetings consisted of material matters relating to the running of the Group.

Information and support for Directors

New Directors receive a full, formal and tailored induction on joining the Board in order to further inform them of the Group's activities and structure.

Upon appointment new Directors are briefed about their responsibilities and duties, together with relevant background information on the Company and assistance and information from representatives of the Investment Advisors and the Administrators.

New Directors are also provided with an opportunity to observe the Board before their appointment and meet representatives of the Property Advisors and Administrators to the Company.

All the Directors comply with mandatory continued professional development requirement and are encouraged to attend industry and other seminars covering issues and developments relevant to investment companies, and Board meetings regularly include agenda items on recent developments in governance and industry issues.

The Chair regularly reviews and agrees with each Director their training and development needs.

All Directors are able to take independent professional advice at the Group's expense in the furtherance of their duties, if necessary.

The Group purchases appropriate insurance in respect of legal action against its Directors and Officers.

Company Secretary

The Company Secretary is responsible for ensuring that Board procedures are followed. Under the guidance of the Chairman, the Secretary ensures that appropriate and timely information flows between the Board, the Committees and to/from the Directors. It facilitates inductions to new Directors and the provision of additional information where required and appropriate.

The Secretary is responsible for advising the Board on governance matters and is available to all Directors for advice and support as required. The Board is presently considering the merit of adopting the AIC code and certain other relevant elements of the UK code of corporate governance.

The Board intends to adopt the AIC Code of Corporate Governance (the AIC Code) for the accounting period beginning 1 January 2019. The Board deems the AIC Code more relevant with respect to the governance of investment companies.

Audit Committee Report

This report provides details of the role of the Committee and the duties it has undertaken during the year under review.

Summary of the role of the Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the half-year and annual financial statements and recommends them to the Board for approval. The role of the Audit Committee includes:

· Monitoring the integrity of the Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Group, covering:

§ formal announcements relating to the Group's financial performance;

§ significant financial reporting issues and judgements;

§ matters raised by the external auditors; and

§ the appropriateness of accounting policies and practices.

· Reviewing and considering the Code and FRC Guidance on Audit Committees.

· Monitoring the quality and effectiveness of the independent external auditors, which includes:

§ meeting regularly to discuss the audit plan and the subsequent audit report;

§ making recommendations to the Board on the appointment, reappointment, replacement and remuneration of the external auditors.

· Reviewing the Group's procedures for prevention, detection and reporting of fraud, bribery and corruption.

· Monitoring and reviewing the internal control and risk management systems of the service providers together with the need for an Internal Audit function.

The Audit Committee's full terms of reference can be obtained from the Company's website www.phoenixspree.com.

Financial reporting

The Audit Committee is responsible for reviewing the half-year and annual financial statements before their submission to the Board. In addition, the Audit Committee is specifically charged under its terms of reference with advising the Board on the terms and scope of the appointment of the auditors, including their remuneration, independence, objectivity and reviewing with the auditors the results and effectiveness of the audit.

Composition of the Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is chaired by Jonathan Thompson with Quentin Spicer, Charlotte Valeur and Monique O'Keefe as members. The qualifications and experience of the members of the Audit and Risk Committee during the financial year are set out in their biographical details on pages 23 and 24.

Meetings

The Audit Committee is scheduled to meet no less than three times a year and, if required, meetings can also be attended by the Property Advisor, the administrator and the external auditor.

Significant issues related to the financial statements

Valuation of investment property

Mitigation

A significant focus for the Audit Committee is the valuation of the Group's property portfolio carried out at half year in June and at the financial year end in December each year, as this is a key determinant of the Group's NAV, its profit or loss and the Property Advisor's remuneration.

The Group has appointed Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") to act as the Independent Property Valuer. The Audit Committee is satisfied that the valuer is independent and that it conducted its work in accordance with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Valuation Standards (RICS).

The Property Valuation Committee reviews the valuer's report, the methodology followed and the assumptions incorporated to assess the adequacy of the valuation. They also meet the independent valuers JLL as part of the valuation review.

External audit

Assessing the effectiveness of the external audit process

The Committee satisfied itself as to the effectiveness of the external audit process as follows:

The audit partner

As a new audit firm was appointed in 2014, no additional rotation considerations were required for the current year. This is however the final year cycle for the current audit partner who is subject to mandatory rotation at the end of the 2018 Financial Statement audit process. Following completion of the audit the Committee assessed the partner's performance against expectations and found this to be satisfactory.

The audit team

Continuity of personnel was reviewed and found to be satisfactory. To supplement the Committee's necessarily limited exposure to junior members of the audit team, feedback was sought on the performance of the external audit team, in particular as regards their understanding of the business, technical competence and attitude.

The audit plan

The scope of the audit was reviewed and debated by the Committee with the auditors prior to work being commenced. This was done in the light of both the auditors' and the Committee's assessment of the key risks. The auditors explained materiality thresholds used in determining their audit scope and the Committee confirmed that these were in accordance with normal audit practice.

The generality of the audit plan document was assessed and found to be satisfactory. Arrangements to identify, report and manage conflicts of interest were satisfactory.

The Committee also considered whether it wished to commission further audit work to be conducted beyond which the auditor considered necessary for the expression of their opinions on the Group accounts and concluded that it did not.

Matters arising from the audit

These were promptly and effectively communicated and addressed as appropriate. The robustness and perceptiveness of the auditors in their handling of the key accounting and audit judgements were seen as appropriate. The detailed report received from the auditors following completion of their work gave comfort as to the diligence of execution of that work.

Added value

In appraising the overall performance of the auditors, the Committee considered whether they had provided useful feedback arising from their work additional to their statutory responsibilities and concluded that they had.

Independence

In addition to receiving the auditors' formal confirmation of their independence, the Committee considered whether this was demonstrated through their general approach and attitude and were satisfied that this was the case.

Audit fees

The level of audit fees was reviewed to ensure that it was sufficient for the work necessary but not excessive. In particular, changes in fees from the previous year were considered in relation to changes in the Group and in risk assessments.

Audit tendering

The Committee considered whether the audit appointment should be put out to tender. In doing so, it considered both the performance of the current auditors and the likely costs and potential benefits of change.

Following the above, the Audit Committee has recommended to the Board that RSM UK Audit LLP is reappointed.

Going forward, the Committee will continue to keep the audit appointment under review, having regard for the new EU requirements for audit tendering.

Group policy on the provision of non-audit services by the auditor

The Committee has an established policy for the commission of non-audit work from the Group's auditor.

The external auditor is excluded from providing non-audit services to the Group where the objectives of such assignments are inconsistent with the objectives of the audit. Additionally, no work is awarded to the auditor which would result in an element of self-review, either during the work or via the audit itself.

The Committee will continue to approve all non-audit fees prior to the work commencing and review the non-audit fees in aggregate for the year.

Risk management and internal control

The Committee reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the Group's (and its service providers') internal financial controls and internal control and risk management systems and review and approves the statements to be included in the Annual Report concerning internal controls and risk management.

The Committee is also responsible for oversight and advice to the Board on the current risk exposures and future risk strategy of the Group.

The Directors have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the Group, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity. The result of this review, the potential impact of each type of risk identified and the mitigation reasons put in place are set out in the 'Principal Risks and Uncertainties' section of the Annual Report on pages 25 to 30. The Directors do not consider that there are any significant problems facing the business in the coming year.

Internal audit

The Group does not currently have an internal audit function, as the Board believes that it can ensure that the Group's risk management, governance and internal control processes are operating effectively without this. This is because the Group's business is conducted by relatively few individuals (through the outsourced service providers) who report to the Board, and its operations are not complex at present. However, if the Group increases in size, the appointment of an appropriately qualified and resourced internal audit department will be considered.

Directors' Remuneration Report

Introduction

This report is on the activities of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee. The information provided in this part of the Directors' Report is not subject to audit, except where stated.

Remuneration policy

During 2018, the Nomination and Remuneration Committee comprised four non-executive directors and the Chairman and is chaired by Quentin Spicer, with Robert Hingley, Monique O'Keefe, Charlotte Valeur and Jonathan Thompson as members. Andrew Weaver ceased to be a member of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee following his resignation from the Board on 17 April 2018.

The Group's policy is that the remuneration of the Directors should reflect the experience of the Board as a whole, the time commitment required, and be fair and comparable with that of other similar companies. Furthermore, the level of remuneration should be sufficient to attract and retain the Directors needed to oversee the Group properly and to reflect its specific circumstances. There were no changes to the policy during the year and it is intended that this policy will continue to apply for the year ending 31 December 2019.

Duties

The Committee was responsible for setting the Directors' remuneration levels, in conjunction with the Chairman and with consideration of the following:

· levels of Directors' remuneration should reflect the time commitment and responsibilities of the role;

· non-executive Directors' remuneration should not include share options or other performance-related elements;

· careful consideration should be given to what compensation commitments entail in the event of early termination of a Director's appointment;

· notice of contract periods should be set at one year or less;

· no Director should be involved in deciding his or her own remuneration;

· independent judgement and discretion should be exercised when authorising remuneration outcomes, taking account of company and individual performance and wider circumstances.

The Committee is also responsible for judging where to position the Group relative to other companies in relation to the level of Directors' remuneration, but using such comparisons with caution in view of the risk of increased remuneration with no corresponding improvement in performance; and considering and making the appropriate recommendations to the Board with regard to the need to appoint external remuneration consultants.

The terms of reference of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee can be obtained from the Company's website www.phoenixspree.com.

For the years ended 31 December 2018 and 31 December 2017 Directors' fees were as follows:

Audited

2018

2017

Annual Fee

Special Projects

Total*

Annual Fee

Special Projects

Total

£

£

£

£

£

£

R Hingley

50,000

25,275

75,275

45,000

Nil

45,000

R Prosser

Nil

Nil

Nil

25,000

Nil

25,000

M Northover

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

M O'Keefe

40,000

4,916

44,916

Nil

Nil

Nil

Q Spicer

40,000

5,069

45,069

35,000

Nil

35,000

A Weaver

Nil

Nil

Nil

25,000

Nil

25,000

C Valeur

40,000

5,008

45,008

Nil

Nil

Nil

J Thompson

45,000

12,423

57,423

Nil

Nil

Nil

Total

215,000

52,691

267,691

130,000

Nil

130,000

*Total director fees for 2018 in the table above reconciles to the directors' fees in note 8 when converted from EUR to GBP at an average rate of EUR/GBP 1.119

During 2018, additional attention was required from the Directors over and above their normal duties with respect to a significant transaction that was considered but not pursued. It was agreed by the committee that additional remuneration, of an amount up to or equal to the annual salary of each Director, could be expensed to the Group. Details of the additional remuneration payable to the Directors are disclosed above and within note 12 to the consolidated financial statements.

During 2018, Richard Prosser was a Director of Estera Fund Administrators (Jersey) Limited, the Group's Administrator. The remuneration of Estera is disclosed in Note 33.

During 2018, Andrew Weaver was a Partner in Appleby's, the Group's Jersey Legal Advisor. The remuneration of Appleby's is disclosed in Note 33.

During 2018, Matthew Northover was a Partner in PMM Partners Ltd., the Group's Property Advisor. The remuneration of PMM Partners Ltd. is disclosed in Note 33.

Directors' Responsibilities

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and the consolidated financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Jersey company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The Directors are required under the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority to prepare the financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS'), as adopted by the European Union ('EU').

The financial statements are required by law and IFRS as adopted by EU to present fairly the financial position of the Group.

Under Jersey company law the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and of the profit or loss of the Group for that period.

In preparing the financial statements, the Directors are required to:

· select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

· make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

· state whether they have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU;

· prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group and the Company will continue in business.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group and the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Directors confirm that these financial statements comply with these requirements.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Company's website. Legislation in Jersey governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Directors' Responsibility Statement

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

· the consolidated financial statements, prepared in accordance with the applicable set of accounting standards (as detailed above) and Company Law, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit and loss of the issuer and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole;

· the management report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the issuer and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties they face, as well as the business model and strategy of the Group; and

· the Annual Report and consolidated financial statements, as a whole, are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group's position, performance, business model and strategy.

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 December 2018

Year ended

Year ended

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

Notes

(restated - see note 2.2)

€'000

€'000

Continuing operations

Revenue

6

22,681

23,667

Property expenses

7

(15,763)

(12,587)

Gross profit

6,918

11,080

Administrative expenses

8

(3,194)

(2,967)

Gain on disposal of investment property (including investment property held for sale)

10

1,026

5,319

Investment property fair value gain

11

66,146

157,374

Performance fee due to property advisor

27

(4,010)

(26,339)

Separately disclosed items

12

(966)

-

Operating profit

65,920

144,467

Net finance charge

13

(9,491)

(5,995)

Profit before taxation

56,429

138,472

Income tax expense

14

(11,071)

(26,150)

Profit after taxation

45,358

112,322

Other comprehensive income

-

-

Total comprehensive income for the year

45,358

112,322

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

Owners of the parent

45,094

111,538

Non-controlling interests

264

784

45,358

112,322

Earnings per share attributable to the owners of the parent:

From continuing operations

Basic (€)

30

0.46

1.21

Diluted (€)

30

0.46

1.11

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

At 31 December 2018

As at

As at

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

Notes

(restated - see note 2.2)

€'000

€'000

ASSETS

Non-current assets

Investment properties

17

632,933

502,360

Property, plant and equipment

19

88

92

Deferred tax asset

14

948

527

Other financial assets at amortised cost

20

2,406

2,323

636,375

505,302

Current Assets

Investment properties - held for sale

18

12,747

106,897

Trade and other receivables

21

7,531

14,404

Cash and cash equivalents

22

26,868

27,182

47,146

148,483

Total assets

683,521

653,785

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Current liabilities

Borrowings

23

3,642

2,646

Trade and other payables

24

10,429

6,522

Derivative financial instruments

25

1,354

-

Current tax

14

1,387

2,914

16,812

12,082

Non-current liabilities

Borrowings

23

191,632

219,648

Derivative financial instruments

25

4,637

3,333

Other financial liabilities

26

7,135

5,663

Deferred tax liability

14

53,458

45,117

256,862

273,761

Total liabilities

273,674

285,843

Equity

Stated capital

28

196,578

162,630

Share based payment reserve

27

4,010

33,953

Retained earnings

207,270

169,634

Equity attributable to owners of the parent

407,858

366,217

Non-controlling interest

29

1,989

1,725

Total equity

409,847

367,942

Total equity and liabilities

683,521

653,785

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 December 2018

Attributable to the owners of the parent

Stated capital

Share based payment reserve

Retained earnings

Total

Non-controlling interest

Total equity

€'000

€'000

€'000

€'000

€'000

€'000

Balance at 1 January 2017

162,630

7,614

64,074

234,318

941

235,259

Comprehensive income:

Profit for the year

-

-

111,538

111,538

784

112,322

Other comprehensive income

-

-

-

-

-

-

Total comprehensive income for the year

-

-

111,538

111,538

784

112,322

Transactions with owners -

recognised directly in equity:

Dividends paid

-

-

(5,978)

(5,978)

-

(5,978)

Performance fee

-

26,339

-

26,339

-

26,339

Balance at 31 December 2017

162,630

33,953

169,634

366,217

1,725

367,942

Comprehensive income:

Profit for the year

-

-

45,094

45,094

264

45,358

Other comprehensive income

-

-

-

-

-

-

Total comprehensive income for the year

-

-

45,094

45,094

264

45,358

Transactions with owners -

recognised directly in equity:

Issue of shares

33,948

(33,948)

-

-

-

-

Dividends paid

-

-

(7,458)

(7,458)

-

(7,458)

Performance fee

-

4,010

-

4,010

-

4,010

Adjustment to perfomance fee

-

(5)

-

(5)

-

(5)

Balance at 31 December 2018

196,578

4,010

207,270

407,858

1,989

409,847

The share based payment reserve was established in relation to the issue of shares for the payment of the performance fee of the property advisor.

Retained earnings are the undistributed reserves to be either reinvested within the Group or distributed to shareholders as dividends.

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 December 2018

Year ended

Year ended

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Profit before taxation

56,429

138,472

Adjustments for:

Net finance charge

9,491

5,995

Gain on disposal of investment property

(1,026)

(5,319)

Investment property revaluation gain

(66,146)

(157,374)

Depreciation

16

23

Performance fee charge

4,010

26,339

Operating cash flows before movements in working capital

2,774

8,136

Decrease / (increase) in receivables

6,492

(3,048)

Increase in payables

3,908

788

Cash generated from operating activities

13,174

5,876

Income tax paid

(4,678)

(50)

Net cash generated from operating activities

8,496

5,826

Cash flow from investing activities

Proceeds on disposal of investment property

86,021

60,436

Interest received

54

103

Capital expenditure on investment property

(7,943)

(6,715)

Property additions

(47,329)

(76,486)

Additions to property, plant and equipment

(12)

(75)

Net cash used in investing activities

30,791

(22,737)

Cash flow from financing activities

Interest paid on bank loans

(5,118)

(5,080)

Repayment of bank loans

(54,680)

(117,712)

Drawdown on bank loan facilities

27,660

154,414

Dividends paid

(7,458)

(5,978)

Net cash generated from financing activities

(39,596)

25,644

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

(309)

8,733

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

27,182

18,450

Exchange gains on cash and cash equivalents

(5)

(1)

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

26,868

27,182

Reconciliation of Net Cash Flow to Movement in Debt

For the year ended 31 December 2018

Year ended

Year ended

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Cashflow from increase in debt financing

(27,020)

36,702

Change in net debt resulting from cash flows

(27,020)

36,702

Movement in debt in the year

(27,020)

36,702

Debt at the start of the year

222,294

185,592

Debt at the end of the year

195,274

222,294

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the year ended 31 December 2018

1 - General information

The Group consists of a Parent Company, Phoenix Spree Deutschland Limited ('the Company'), incorporated in Jersey, Channel Islands and all its subsidiaries ('the Group') which are incorporated and domiciled in and operate out of Jersey, Guernsey and Germany. Phoenix Spree Deutschland Limited is listed on the premium segment of the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, International Accounting Standards and interpretations (collectively, 'IFRS'), International and Financial Reporting Interpretation Committee ('IFRIC') interpretations, as adopted by the European Union ('IFRS as adopted by the EU').

In accordance with Section 105 of The Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, the Group confirms that the financial information for the year ended 31 December 2018 are derived from the Group's audited financial statements and that these are not statutory accounts and, as such, do not contain all information required to be disclosed in the financial statements prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS").

The statutory accounts for the year ended 31 December 2018 have been audited and approved, but have not yet been filed.

The Group's audited financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2018 received an unqualified audit opinion and the auditor's report contained no statement under section 113B (3) and (6) of The Companies (Jersey) Law 1991.

The financial information contained within this preliminary statement was approved and authorised for issue by the Board on 26 April 2019.

2.2 Change of accounting policy

The Group has carried out a review of IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which is effective from 1 January 2018. The main outcome of the review is to recognise service charges to tenants as revenue, and service costs recharged to tenants as property costs, whereas in prior years, service charges incurred on the properties were offset against service charge income. In accordance with the transition provisions of IFRS 15, the Group has adopted the new rules retrospectively and has restated comparatives for the 2017 financial year. For the 2018 financial year the effect has been to recognise service charge revenue of €5.173 million, and property expenses of €5.173 million, and to increase trade and other receivables by €4.766 million, and service charges payable by €4.028 million. For the year 2017, this has resulted in an increase in revenue of €5.587 million with a corresponding increase in other property expenses along with an increase in trade and other receivables of €4.403 million and a corresponding increase in service charges payable. The change of policy has no effect on reported profit or net assets.

2.3 Going concern

The Directors have prepared projections for the period to 31 December 2021. These projections have been prepared using assumptions which the Directors consider to be appropriate to the current financial position of the Group as regards to current expected revenues and its cost base and the Group's investments, borrowing and debt repayment plans and show that the Group should be able to operate within the level of its current resources and expects to comply with all covenants for the foreseeable future. The Group's business activities together with the factors likely to affect its future development and the Group's objectives, policies and processes from managing its capital and its risks are set out in the Strategic Report. After making enquiries the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. The Group therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its consolidated financial statements.

2.4 Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and entities controlled by the Company (its subsidiaries). The Company controls an entity when the Group is exposed to, or has rights to, variable returns through its power over the entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are deconsolidated from the date that control ceases.

Profit or loss and each component of other comprehensive income are attributable to the owners of the Company and to the non-controlling interests. Total comprehensive income of the subsidiaries is attributable to the owners of the Company and to the non-controlling interests even if this results in the non-controlling interests having a deficit balance.

Accounting policies of subsidiaries which differ from Group accounting policies are adjusted on consolidation. All intra-group transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation.

Non-controlling interests in subsidiaries are identified separately from the Group's equity therein. Those interests of non-controlling shareholders that present ownership interests entitling their holders to a proportionate share of net assets upon liquidation may initially be measured at fair value or at the non-controlling interests' proportionate share of the fair value of the acquiree's identifiable net assets. The choice of measurement is made on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis. Other non-controlling interests are initially measured at fair value. Subsequent to acquisition, the carrying amount of non-controlling interests is the amount of those interests at initial recognition plus the non-controlling interests' share of subsequent changes in equity.

Changes in the Group's interests in subsidiaries that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for as equity transactions. The carrying amount of the Group's interests and the non-controlling interests are adjusted to reflect the changes in their relative interests in the subsidiaries. Any difference between the amount by which the non-controlling interests are adjusted and the fair value of the consideration paid or received is recognised directly in equity and attributed to the owners of the Company.

2.5 Revenue recognition

Revenue includes rental income and service charges and other amounts directly recoverable from tenants. Rental income and service charges from operating leases are recognised as income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. When the Group provides incentives to its tenants, the cost of incentives are recognised over the lease term, on a straight-line basis, as a reduction of rental income.

2.6 Foreign currencies

(a) Functional and presentation currency

The currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company operates ('the functional currency') is the Euro (€). The presentational currency of the consolidated financial statements is also the Euro (€).

(b) Transactions and balances.

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. At each reporting date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing at that date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from such transactions are recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the rates prevailing at the date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated.

2.7 Segment reporting

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Board of Directors.

2.8 Operating profit

Operating profit is stated before the Group's gain or loss on its financial assets and after the revaluation gains or losses for the year in respect of investment properties and after gains or losses on the disposal of investment properties.

2.9 Administrative and property expenses

All expenses are accounted for on an accruals basis and are charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the period in which they are incurred. Service charge costs, to the extent that they are not recoverable from tenants, are accounted for on an accruals basis and included in property expenses.

2.10 Separately disclosed items

Certain items are disclosed separately in the consolidated financial statements where this provides further understanding of the financial performance of the Group, due to their significance in terms of nature or amount.

2.11 Property Advisor fees

The element of Property Advisor fees for management services provided are accounted for on an accruals basis and are charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. These fees are detailed in note 7 and classified under 'Property advisors' fees and expenses'. The settlement of the Property Advisor performance fees is detailed in note 27. Due to the nature of the settlement of the performance fee, any movement in the amount payable at the year end is reflected within the share based payment reserve on the consolidated statement of financial position.

2.12 Investment property

Property that is held for long-term rental yields or for capital appreciation, or both, and that is not occupied by the Group, is classified as investment property.

Investment property is measured initially at cost, including related transaction costs. After initial recognition, investment property is carried at fair value, based on market value.

The change in fair values is recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year.

A valuation exercise is undertaken by the Group's independent valuer, Jones Lang LaSalle GmbH ('JLL'), at each reporting date in accordance with the methodology described in note 17 on a building-by-building basis. Such estimates are inherently subjective and actual values can only be determined in a sales transaction. The valuations have been prepared by JLL on a consistent basis at each reporting date.

Subsequent expenditure is added to the asset's carrying amount only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. Repairs and maintenance costs are charged to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income during the financial period in which they are incurred. Changes in fair values are recorded in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year.

Purchases and sales of investment properties are recognised on legal completion.

An investment property is derecognised upon disposal or when the investment property is permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefits are expected from the disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the property (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, where the carrying amount is the higher of cost or fair value) is included in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the period in which the property is derecognised.

2.13 Current assets held for sale - investment property

Current assets (and disposal groups) classified as held for sale are measured at the most recent valuation.

Current assets (and disposal groups) are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. This condition is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and the asset (or disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition. Management must be committed to the sale which should be expected to qualify for recognition as a completed sale within one year from the date of classification.

The Group will recognise an asset in this category once the Board has committed the sale of an asset and marketing has commenced.

When the Group is committed to a sale plan involving loss of control of a subsidiary, all of the assets and liabilities of that subsidiary are classified as held for sale when the criteria described above are met, regardless of whether the Group will retain a non-controlling interest in its former subsidiary after the sale.

If an asset held for sale is unsold within one year of being classified as such, it will continue to be classified as held for sale if:

(a) at the date the Company commits itself to a plan to sell a non-current asset (or disposal group) it reasonably expects that others (not a buyer) will impose conditions on the transfer of the asset that will extend the period required to complete the sale, and actions necessary to respond to those conditions cannot be initiated until after a firm purchase commitment is obtained, and a firm purchase commitment is highly probable within one year;

(b) the Company obtains a firm purchase commitment and, as a result, a buyer or others unexpectedly impose conditions on the transfer of a non-current asset (or disposal group) previously classified as held for sale that will extend the period required to complete the sale, and timely actions necessary to respond to the conditions have been taken, and a favourable resolution of the delaying factors is expected;

(c) during the initial one-year period, circumstances arise that were previously considered unlikely and, as a result, a non-current asset previously classified as held for sale is not sold by the end of that period, and during the initial one-year period the Company took action necessary to respond to the change in circumstances, and the non-current asset is being actively marketed at a price that is reasonable, given the change in circumstances, and the criteria above are met;

(d) otherwise it will be transferred back to investment property.

2.14 Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.

Cost includes the original purchase price of the asset and the costs attributable to bringing the asset to its working condition for its intended use. Depreciation is charged so as to write off the costs of assets to their residual values over their estimated useful lives, on the following basis:

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

2.15 Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale.

All other borrowing costs are recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income in the period in which they are incurred.

2.16 Tenants deposits

Tenants deposits are held off the consolidated statement of financial position in a separate bank account in accordance with German legal requirements, and the funds are not accessible to the Group. Accordingly, neither an asset nor a liability is recognised.

2.17 Financial Instruments under IFRS 9

The Company has applied IFRS 9 from 1 January 2018 but as explained in note 2.19 has not restated comparatives on initial application. The classification and measurement policies adopted by the Company are explained in note 2.19, but the detailed policies for each class of instrument is as follows:

Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables are amounts due from tenants for rents and service charges and are initially recognised at the amount of the consideration that is unconditional and subsequently carried at amortised cost as the Group's business model is to collect the contractual cash flows due from tenants. Provision is made based on the expected credit loss model which reflects on the Company's historical credit loss experience over the past three years but also reflects the lifetime expected credit loss.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash and short term deposits, including any bank overdrafts, with an original maturity of three months or less, measured at amortised cost.

Trade and other payables

Trade payables are recognised and carried at their invoiced value inclusive of any VAT that may be applicable, and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest model.

Borrowings

All loans and borrowings are initially measured at fair value less directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, all interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest method.

The interest due within the next twelve months is accrued at the end of the year and presented as a current liability within trade and other payables.

The Company has applied IFRS 9 retrospectively, but has elected not to restate comparative information. As a result the comparative information continues to be accounted for in accordance with the Company's previous accounting policies as set out below.

Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised in the Group's consolidated statement of financial position when the Group becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. Financial assets are derecognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire or when the contractual rights to those assets are transferred. Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged, cancelled or expired.

The Group classifies its financial assets as held at fair value through profit or loss, or measured at amortised cost. The classification depends on the purpose for which the financial assets were acquired, and is determined at initial recognition.

(a) Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss ('FVTPL')

Financial assets are classified as FVTPL when the financial asset is designated as FVTPL. A financial asset may be designated as FVTPL upon initial recognition if:

• such designation eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise; or

• the financial asset forms part of a group of financial assets or financial liabilities, or both, which is managed and its performance is evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with the Group's documented risk management strategy, and information about the grouping is provided internally on that basis.

Financial assets at FVTPL are stated at fair value, with any gains or losses arising on re-measurement recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. Fair value is determined in the manner described in note 32.

(b) Financial assets measured at amortised cost

The Group's financial assets measured at amortised cost comprise trade and other receivables and cash and cash equivalents. Loans and receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

(i) Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method less provision for impairment. Appropriate provisions for estimated irrecoverable amounts are recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income when there is objective evidence that the assets are impaired. Interest income is recognised by applying the effective interest rate, except for short-term trade and other receivables when the recognition of interest would be immaterial.

Service charges receivable and payable from tenants are presented gross as assets and liabilities separately.

Impairment provisions are recognised when there is objective evidence (such as significant financial difficulties on the part of the counterparty or default or significant delay in payment) that the Group will be unable to collect all of the amounts due. For trade and other receivables, which are reported net, such provisions are recorded in a separate allowance account with the loss being recognised within property expenses in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. On confirmation that the trade and other receivables will not be collectable, the gross carrying value of the asset is written off against the associated provision.

(ii) Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash in hand, cash at agents, demand deposits, and other short-term highly liquid investments that have maturities of three months or less from inception, are readily convertible to a known amount of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

(c) Equity instruments

An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Group are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

(d) Trade and other payables

Trade payables are initially measured at their fair value and are subsequently measured at their amortised cost using the effective interest method; this method allocates interest expense over the relevant period by applying the 'effective interest rate' to the carrying amount of the liability.

(e) Borrowings

Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, net of transaction costs incurred. Borrowings are subsequently stated at amortised cost; any difference between the proceeds (net of transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income over the period of the borrowings using the effective interest method.

2.18 Current and deferred income tax

The tax expense for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In that case, the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

(a) Current tax

The current tax charge is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit reported in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group's liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the accounting date.

(b) Deferred tax

Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred tax is charged or credited in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income except when it relates to items credited or charged directly in equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt with in equity.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates and laws that are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled based upon tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the accounting date.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each accounting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

2.19 New standards and interpretations

The following relevant new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations have been issued, and are effective for the financial year beginning on 1 January 2018, as adopted by the European Union:

Title

As issued by the IASB, mandatory for accounting periods starting on or after

IFRS 9 - Financial Instruments

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018

IFRS 15 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018

IFRIC 22 - Foreign currency transactions and advance consideration

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018

IFRS 9 -The Company has applied IFRS 9 from 1 January 2018 but will not restate comparatives on initial application.

The Company has reviewed its financial assets and liabilities and the impact from the adoption of the new standard is as follows:

(i) Classification and measurement

IFRS 9 contains three principal classification categories for financial assets: measured at amortised cost, fair value through profit and loss and fair value through other comprehensive income. The Company's financial assets at 31 December 2018 consist primarily of trade receivables, including service charges, and other financial assets which will continue to be reflected at amortised cost. Trade receivables are classified as at amortised cost as they meet the test of Solely Payments of Principal and Interest ("SPPI test") as the Group's model is to collect the contracted cash flows due from tenants. There was no impact in respect of classification and measurement of financial liabilities under IFRS 9.

(ii) Impairment

The new impairment model requires the recognition of impairment provisions based on expected credit losses rather than only on incurred losses as was the case under lAS 39. It is therefore no longer necessary for a credit event to have occurred before credit losses are recognised. IFRS 9 requires a simplified approach for measuring the loss allowance at an amount equal to lifetime expected credit losses ("ECLs") for trade receivables without a significant financing component.

The main area of focus to the Company is considered to be impairment provisioning of trade receivables. Other financial assets are also subject to the expected credit loss model.

Gross trade receivables held at 31 December 2018 were €1.0 million (2017: €0.3 million) with an impairment provision recognised of €0.2 million (2017: €0.3 million). The credit risk associated with unpaid rent is deemed low.

We have performed an assessment of the impact of impairment losses recognised for trade receivables under IFRS 9 at 31 December 2018 through estimating the expected credit loss based on actual credit loss experienced over the past three years and taking into consideration future expected losses. Based on this assessment, there was no material impact of impairment losses recognised under IFRS 9.

The impact of non-substantial debt modifications has been reviewed and there is no material impact on the financial statements at transition.

IFRS 15 - The Company has contracts which include both an operating lease and a service, i.e. rental of space and service charges. The contracts do not separate the operating lease component as the accounting for operating lease income and a service/supply arrangement is similar. Under IFRS 16, lessors are required to account for the lease and non-lease components of a contract separately. In the case of non-lease components such as service charges, this must be accounted for under IFRS 15. The Company recognises the rental income over the duration of the life of the contract and recognising the service charge component as incurred.

The following relevant new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations have been issued, but are not effective for the financial year beginning on 1 January 2018, as adopted by the European Union, and have not been early adopted:

Title

As issued by the IASB, mandatory for accounting periods starting on or after

IFRS 16 Leases

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

The Directors have considered that the adoption of this standard in future periods will have no material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Group. The impact of IFRS 16 removes the differentiation between financial and operational leases with regard to the Lessee party. As the Group is the lessor in their contractual arrangements IFRS 16's approach is substantially unchanged from its predecessor, IAS 17.

The following standards have been issued by the IASB but have not yet been adopted by the EU:

Title

As issued by the IASB, mandatory for accounting periods starting on or after

IFRIC 23 - Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

Prepayment Features with Negative Compensation (Amendments to IFRS 9)

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

Long Term Interests in Associates and Joint Ventures (Amendments to IAS 28)

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2015-2017 Cycle

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement (Amendments to IAS 19)

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2019

Amendments to References to the Conceptual Framework in IFRS Standards

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2020

IFRS 17 - Insurance Contracts

Accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2021

While the above standards have not yet been adopted by the EU, the Group is currently assessing their impact.

3. Financial risk management

3.1 Financial risk factors

The Group's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. The Group's overall risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Group's financial performance.

Risk management is carried out by the Risk Committee (previously the Audit and Risk Committee up to 17 April 2018) under policies approved by the Board of Directors. The Board provides principles for overall risk management, as well as policies covering specific areas, such as interest rate risk, credit risk and investment of excess liquidity.

3.2 Market risk

Market risk is the risk of loss that may arise from changes in market factors such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and general property market risk.

(a) Foreign exchange risk

The Group operates in Germany and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from currency exposures, primarily with respect to Sterling against the Euro arising from the costs which are incurred in Sterling. Foreign exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions, and recognised monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the Euro.

The Group's policy is not to enter into any currency hedging transactions.

(b) Interest rate risk

The Group has exposure to interest rate risk. It has external borrowings at a number of different variable interest rates. The Group is also exposed to interest rate risk on some of its financial assets, being its cash at bank balances. Details of actual interest rates paid or accrued during each period can be found in note 23 to the consolidated financial statements.

The Group's policy is to manage its interest rate risk by entering into a suitable hedging arrangement, either caps or swaps, in order to limit exposure to borrowings at variable rates.

(c) General property market risk

Through its investment in property, the Group is subject to other risks which can affect the value of property. The Group seeks to minimise the impact of these risks by review of economic trends and property markets in order to anticipate major changes affecting property values.

3.3 Credit risk

The risk of financial loss due to counterparty's failure to honour their obligations arises principally in connection with property leases and the investment of surplus cash.

The Group has policies in place to ensure that rental contracts are made with customers with an appropriate credit history. Tenant rent payments are monitored regularly and appropriate action taken to recover monies owed, or if necessary, to terminate the lease.

Cash transactions are limited to financial institutions with a high credit rating.

3.4 Liquidity risk

The Group's objective is to maintain a balance between continuity of funding and flexibility through the use of bank loans secured on the Group's properties. The terms of the borrowings entitle the lender to require early repayment should the Group be in default with significant payments for more than one month.

3.5 Capital management

The prime objective of the Group's capital management is to ensure that it maintains the financial flexibility needed to allow for value-creating investments as well as healthy balance sheet ratios.

The capital structure of the Group consists of net debt (borrowings disclosed in note 23 after deducting cash and cash equivalents) and equity of the Group (comprising stated capital, reserves and retained earnings).

When reviewing the capital structure the Group considers the cost of capital and the risks associated with each class of capital. The Group reviews the gearing ratio which is determined as the proportion of net debt to equity. In comparison with comparable companies operating within the property sector the Board considers the gearing ratios to be reasonable.

The gearing ratios for the reporting periods are as follows:

As at

As at

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Borrowings

(195,274)

(222,294)

Cash and cash equivalents

26,868

27,182

Net debt

(168,406)

(195,112)

Equity

409,847

367,942

Net debt to equity ratio

41%

53%

4. Critical accounting estimates and judgements

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the Group to make certain critical accounting estimates and judgements. In the process of applying the Group's accounting policies, management has decided the following estimates and assumptions have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the financial year;

i) Estimate of fair value of investment properties

The best evidence of fair value is current prices in an active market of investment properties with similar leases and other contracts. In the absence of such information, the Group determines the amount within a range of reasonable fair value estimates. In making its judgement, the Group considers information from a variety of sources, including:

a) Discounted cash flow projections based on reliable estimates of future cash flows, derived from the terms of any existing lease and other contracts, and (where possible) from external evidence such as current market rents for similar properties in the same location and condition, and using discount rates that reflect current market assessments of the uncertainty in the amount and timing of the cash flows.

b) Current prices in an active market, and its third party independent experts, for properties of different nature, condition or location (or subject to different lease or other contracts), adjusted to reflect those differences.

c) Recent prices of similar properties in less active markets, with adjustments to reflect any changes in economic conditions since the date of the transactions that occurred at those prices.

The Directors remain ultimately responsible for ensuring that the valuers are adequately qualified, competent and base their results on reasonable and realistic assumptions. The Directors have appointed JLL as the real estate valuation experts who determine the fair value of investment properties using recognised valuation techniques and the principles of IFRS 13. Further information on the valuation process can be found in note 17.

ii) Judgment in relation to the recognition of assets held for sale

Management has assumed the likelihood of investment properties - held for sale, being sold within 12 months, in accordance with the requirement of IFRS 5. Management considers that based on historical and current experience that the properties can be reasonably expected to sell within 12 months.

iii) Judgment in recognition of the property advisor performance fee

The new property advisor performance fee agreement is effective only from 1 January 2019 and the fee arising under the prior agreement for the year ended 31 December 2018 was waived.

The performance fee is based on performance since 1 July 2018 and the directors judge it to be appropriate to recognise a charge in the year to reflect the services provided.

5. Segmental information

Information reported to the Board of Directors, which is the chief operating decision maker, for the purposes of resource allocation and assessment of segment performance is focussed on the different revenue streams that exist within the Group. The Group's principal reportable segments under IFRS 8 are therefore as follows:

- Residential

- Commercial

All revenues are earned in Germany with property and administrative expenses incurred in Jersey, Germany and Guernsey.

31 December 2017

Residential

Commercial

Unallocated

Total

€'000

€'000

€'000

€'000

Investment property

444,488

57,872

-

502,360

Loans and receivables

-

-

2,323

2,323

Investment properties - held for sale

94,582

12,315

-

106,897

Other assets

33,366

4,344

92

37,802

Liabilities

(265,020)

(7,843)

(8,577)

(281,440)

Net assets

307,416

66,688

(6,162)

367,942

Revenue (restated - see note 2.2)

20,941

2,726

-

23,667

Property expenses (restated - see note 2.2)

(11,137)

(1,450)

-

(12,587)

Administrative expenses

-

-

(2,967)

(2,967)

Gain on disposal of investment property

5,319

-

-

5,319

Investment property fair value gain

139,245

18,129

-

157,374

Performance fee

-

-

(26,339)

(26,339)

Operating profit

154,368

19,405

(29,306)

144,467

Net finance charge

(5,995)

Income tax expense

(26,150)

Profit for the year

112,322

31 December 2018

Residential

Commercial

Unallocated

Total

€'000

€'000

€'000

€'000

Investment properties

560,019

72,914

-

632,933

Other financial assets at amortised cost

-

-

2,406

2,406

Investment properties - held for sale

11,279

1,468

-

12,747

Other assets

31,275

4,072

88

35,435

Liabilities

(253,998)

(11,154)

(8,522)

(273,674)

Net assets

348,575

67,300

(6,028)

409,847

Revenue

20,068

2,613

-

22,681

Property expenses

(13,947)

(1,816)

-

(15,763)

Administrative expenses

-

-

(3,194)

(3,194)

Gain on disposal of investment property

1,026

-

-

1,026

Investment property fair value gain

58,526

7,620

-

66,146

Performance fee

-

-

(4,010)

(4,010)

Separately disclosed items

-

-

(966)

(966)

Operating profit

65,673

8,417

(8,170)

65,920

Net finance charge

(9,491)

Income tax expense

(11,071)

Profit for the year

45,358

6. Revenue

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

(restated - see note 2.2)

€'000

€'000

Rental income

17,508

18,080

Service charge income

5,173

5,587

22,681

23,667

The total future aggregated minimum rentals receivable under non-cancellable operating leases are as follows:

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Not later than one year

435

904

Later than one year but not later than five years

2,468

3,364

Later than five years

2,701

1,398

5,604

5,666

Revenue comprises rental income earned from residential and commercial property in Germany. There are no individual tenants that account for greater than 10% of revenue during any of the reporting periods.

The leasing arrangements for residential property are with individual tenants, with one month notice for cancellation of the lease in most cases.

The commercial leases are non-cancellable, with an average lease period of 3 years.

7. Property expenses

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

(restated - see note 2.2)

€'000

€'000

Property management expenses

1,024

1,079

Repairs and maintenance

1,710

1,433

Impairment charge - trade receivables

29

41

Other property expenses

7,053

5,825

Property advisors' fees and expenses

5,947

4,209

15,763

12,587

8. Administrative expenses

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Secretarial & administration fees

880

901

Legal & professional fees

1,160

1,045

Directors' fees

300

148

Audit and accountancy fees

840

894

Bank charges

54

56

Loss on foreign exchange

133

20

Depreciation

16

23

Other income

(189)

(120)

3,194

2,967

Key management compensation - the functions of management are undertaken by external providers of professional services, as set out in note 33.

Further details of the Directors' fees are set out in the Directors' Remuneration Report on page 49 and in note 12 below.

9. Auditor's remuneration

An analysis of the fees charged by the auditor and its associates is as follows:

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Fees payable to the Group's auditor and its associates for the audit of the consolidated financial statements:

188

176

Fees payable to the Group's auditor and its associates for other services:

- Corporate finance

-

26

- Audit-related assurance services

27

24

- Other

8

-

223

226

10. Gain on disposal of investment property (including investment property held for sale)

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Net proceeds

86,959

61,652

Book value of disposals

(84,995)

(55,117)

Disposal costs

(938)

(1,216)

1,026

5,319

Where there has been a partial disposal of a property, the net book value of the asset sold is calculated on a per square metre rate, based on the prior period or interim valuation.

11. Investment property fair value gain

31 December 2018

31 December 2017

€'000

€'000

Investment property fair value gain

66,146

157,374

Further information on investment properties is shown in note 17.

12. Separately disclosed items

These relate to legal and professional fees incurred during a significant transaction which was considered by the Board but not pursued totalling €966,000 (December 2017: €nil).

As part of this transaction, significant demands were made on the Directors' time. It was agreed that these requirements were far in excess of the Directors' contracted obligations and that a sum up to or equal to their annual salary could be billed for their time and effort. Directors fees relating to the above totalled £52,691. These additional fees have been included within the total Directors' fees expense as detailed in note 8.